The nurse is about to administer a histamine 2-receptor antagonist to a patient with peptic ulcer disease. What is the primary purpose of this class of medication?
It reduces the amount of HCl secreted by the parietal cells in the stomach.
It destroys the microorganisms causing inflammation in the stomach.
It neutralizes hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach.
It inhibits the action of acetylcholine by blocking parasympathetic nerve endings.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Histamine H2-receptor antagonists, also known as H2 blockers, are medications that help reduce the production of gastric acid. They achieve this by blocking H2 receptors in the parietal cells of the stomach, which are responsible for secreting hydrochloric acid (HCl)12. This reduction in acid secretion can help treat conditions such as peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, which are all conditions that can be exacerbated by excessive stomach acid.
Choice B rationale
While H2 blockers do help manage the symptoms of peptic ulcer disease, they do not directly destroy the microorganisms causing inflammation in the stomach. The primary cause of peptic ulcers is a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori, and the treatment for an H. pylori infection typically involves a combination of antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors, not H2 blockers.
Choice C rationale
H2 blockers do not neutralize hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach. Instead, they work by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach. Antacids, not H2 blockers, are the class of drugs that work by neutralizing stomach acid.
Choice D rationale
H2 blockers do not inhibit the action of acetylcholine by blocking parasympathetic nerve endings. Anticholinergic medications are the ones that work by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that transmits signals in the nervous system.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While abdominal cramping can be a symptom of gastritis, it is not typically a sign of a serious complication that would require immediate medical attention.
Choice B rationale
Bruising of the skin is not typically associated with gastritis. If the client notices unexplained bruising, they should report it, but it is not the most critical symptom to watch for.
Choice C rationale
A low-grade fever can be a symptom of gastritis, but it is not typically a sign of a serious complication. The client should monitor their temperature, but it is not the most critical symptom to watch for.
Choice D rationale
Bloody emesis can be a sign of a serious complication of gastritis, such as a bleeding ulcer. If the client notices bloody or coffee-ground emesis, they should seek medical attention immediately.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Reviewing the history and physical (H&P), nurse’s notes, flow sheet, and orders is a standard part of nursing care for any patient. However, in the case of a 3-week-old infant who has had a seizure, this action alone would not directly address the condition the infant is most likely experiencing.
Choice B rationale
While calling for a chest x-ray could be part of the diagnostic process for certain conditions, it is not typically the first action taken in response to a seizure in an infant.
Choice C rationale
Hypocalcemia, or low calcium levels in the blood, can cause seizures in infants. Phenytoin, the medication given to the baby in the ambulance, is used to control seizures. Therefore, hypocalcemia could be the condition the infant is experiencing.
Choice D rationale
Monitoring the respiratory rate is an important part of assessing any patient’s condition, especially an infant who has had a seizure. However, it does not specify the condition the infant is most likely experiencing.
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