The nurse admits to the clinic a 7-month-old infant whose parents report that the baby has not had a bowel movement in 4 days.
What is the nurse’s best action?
Administer a glycerin suppository as prescribed.
Administer magnesium hydroxide as prescribed.
Encourage watchful waiting for 24 hours.
Encourage feeding supplementation with free water.
The Correct Answer is A
Glycerin suppositories are safe and effective for infants with constipation. They work by lubricating and softening the stool, and stimulating the rectal muscles to contract.
Choice B is wrong because magnesium hydroxide is not recommended for infants under 6 months of age, and may cause diarrhea, electrolyte imbalance, or magnesium toxicity.
Choice C is wrong because watchful waiting for 24 hours may not be enough to relieve the infant’s discomfort and may lead to further complications such as fecal impaction or dehydration.
Choice D is wrong because feeding supplementation with free water may not be sufficient to treat constipation, and may dilute the infant’s intake of nutrients and electrolytes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps thin and loosen mucus in the lungs, making it easier to cough up the sputum. Some possible explanations for the other choices are:
Choice A. Benzonatate is wrong because benzonatate is an antitussive that suppresses the cough reflex by numbing the throat and lungs.
It does not help with sputum production or clearance.
Choice B. Dextromethorphan is wrong because dextromethorphan is also an antitussive that acts on the brain to reduce the urge to cough.
It does not affect the mucus or bronchial secretions.
Choice C. Hydrocodone is wrong because hydrocodone is a narcotic antitussive that works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, blocking pain signals and decreasing cough.
It can cause sedation, respiratory depression, and dependence, and is not indicated for bronchitis.
Normal ranges for sputum production vary depending on the individual and the cause of the cough, but generally range from 10 to 100 mL per day.
Excessive or abnormal sputum may indicate an infection, inflammation, or obstruction of the airways.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Levothyroxine is a synthetic thyroid hormone that is used to treat hypothyroidism. It should be taken on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning, with a full glass of water to facilitate absorption and prevent choking. Taking the medication with food or other substances may interfere with its effectiveness.
Choice A is wrong because levothyroxine does not need to be taken after breakfast.
In fact, taking it after breakfast may reduce its absorption and efficacy.
Choice C is wrong because levothyroxine does not require the patient to remain in the upright position for 30 minutes after administering.
This instruction is more applicable to bisphosphonates, which are drugs used to treat osteoporosis.
Choice D is wrong because levothyroxine should not be taken at night.
Taking it at night may cause insomnia, as well as reduced absorption and efficacy.
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