Patient Data
The nurse is preparing the client’s plan of care. Select 4 findings that would indicate to the nurse that the administration of the vancomycin antibiotic would be safe to administer.
No known allergies
Dosage in safe range
Potassium 4.4 mEq/L (4.4 mmol/L)
Peripheral IV in large vein
Used for prophylaxis
Blood urea nitrogen 17 mg/dl (6.07 mmol/L)
Correct Answer : A,B,D,E
Choice A: No known allergies
Reason: The absence of known allergies is crucial when administering any medication, including antibiotics like vancomycin. Allergic reactions to antibiotics can range from mild rashes to severe anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. In this case, the patient has reported no known allergies, which significantly reduces the risk of an adverse reaction to vancomycin. This makes it safer to proceed with the administration of the antibiotic. Ensuring that the patient has no known allergies is a standard precaution in medical practice to prevent potential allergic reactions.
Choice B: Dosage in safe range
Reason: The dosage of vancomycin must be within a safe range to avoid toxicity. Vancomycin is typically dosed based on the patient’s weight and renal function. For adults, the usual dose is 15-20 mg/kg, administered every 8-12 hours, depending on the severity of the infection and the patient’s renal function. In this scenario, the prescribed dose is 1 gram in 250 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride, which is within the safe range for an adult patient. Administering the correct dosage is essential to ensure the effectiveness of the antibiotic while minimizing the risk of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity, which are potential side effects of vancomycin.
Choice C: Potassium 4.4 mEq/L (4.4 mmol/L)
Reason: While the potassium level of 4.4 mEq/L is within the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L), it is not directly related to the safety of administering vancomycin. Potassium levels are more relevant to the overall electrolyte balance and cardiac function but do not specifically impact the administration of vancomycin. Therefore, this choice is not as pertinent to the safety of vancomycin administration as the other options.
Choice D: Peripheral IV in large vein
Reason: Administering vancomycin through a peripheral IV in a large vein is important to reduce the risk of phlebitis and irritation. Vancomycin is known to be irritating to veins, and using a large vein helps to dilute the medication more effectively, reducing the risk of vein inflammation. In this case, the peripheral IV was started in the right antecubital with a 20-gauge catheter, which is appropriate for the administration of vancomycin. Ensuring proper IV placement and using a large vein can help prevent complications associated with IV administration of this antibiotic.
Choice E: Used for prophylaxis
Reason: Vancomycin is being used as a prophylactic measure to prevent endocarditis in this patient. Prophylactic use of antibiotics is common in patients undergoing certain surgical procedures, especially those with a history of heart conditions, to prevent bacterial infections. In this case, the patient is undergoing pacemaker insertion, and the use of vancomycin as prophylaxis is appropriate to prevent potential infections. Prophylactic administration of antibiotics like vancomycin is a standard practice to reduce the risk of postoperative infections, particularly in patients with a higher risk of complications.
Choice F: Blood urea nitrogen 17 mg/dl (6.07 mmol/L)
Reason: The blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 17 mg/dL is within the normal range (7-20 mg/dL). While BUN levels are important indicators of renal function, they are not directly related to the safety of administering vancomycin in this context. Vancomycin dosing does need to consider renal function, but the BUN level alone does not provide sufficient information to determine the safety of administration. Therefore, this choice is not as directly relevant as the other options.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Performing a bladder scan is useful for assessing urinary retention, which can be a symptom of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). However, it is not the primary method for monitoring adverse reactions to tamsulosin. Tamsulosin is an alpha-1 blocker that relaxes the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, improving urine flow. While it can help reduce urinary retention, the primary concern with tamsulosin is its effect on blood pressure.
Choice B reason:
Monitoring blood pressure is crucial because tamsulosin can cause orthostatic hypotension, a condition where blood pressure drops significantly when a person stands up from a sitting or lying position. This can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting. Regular monitoring of blood pressure helps detect and manage this potential adverse reaction, ensuring the client’s safety.

Choice C reason:
Obtaining daily weights is important for monitoring fluid balance and detecting conditions like heart failure or kidney disease. However, it is not directly related to the adverse reactions of tamsulosin. The primary concern with tamsulosin is its impact on blood pressure, not fluid retention.
Choice D reason:
Assessing urine output is important for evaluating the effectiveness of tamsulosin in relieving urinary symptoms associated with BPH. However, it is not the primary method for monitoring adverse reactions. The main adverse reaction to be aware of with tamsulosin is its potential to cause orthostatic hypotension, making blood pressure monitoring the priority.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Rinsing the mouth with water after using an inhaler, especially one containing corticosteroids, is crucial to prevent oral thrush (a fungal infection) and reduce irritation in the mouth and throat. This practice helps maintain oral hygiene and ensures the medication does not linger in the mouth, which can cause side effects.
Choice B reason:
Using the inhaler during meals to mask the taste of the medication is not recommended. Inhalers should be used as prescribed, and the technique should not be altered to mask the taste. Proper inhaler technique is essential for the medication to reach the lungs effectively.
Choice C reason:
Limiting caffeinated beverages to two cups per day is generally good advice for overall health, but it is not directly related to the use of an inhaler. Caffeine can sometimes exacerbate symptoms of asthma or other respiratory conditions, but this is not a primary instruction for inhaler use.
Choice D reason:
Using the inhaler before bed at night may be part of a prescribed regimen, but it is not a general instruction that indicates understanding of inhaler use. The timing of inhaler use should follow the healthcare provider’s instructions, which may vary depending on the medication and the individual’s condition.
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