The nurse is caring for a client newly diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The client also takes theophylline to control asthma symptoms.
What change may need to be made to the client’s theophylline dose?
Decrease theophylline dosage immediately.
Decrease theophylline dose when normal thyroid function returns.
Discontinue the client’s theophylline.
Increase theophylline dosage immediately.
The Correct Answer is B
This is because hypothyroidism can reduce the metabolism and clearance of theophylline, leading to higher serum levels and increased risk of toxicity. Therefore, when the thyroid function is restored by levothyroxine or liothyronine, the dose of theophylline may need to be lowered to avoid excessive effects.
Choice A is wrong because decreasing theophylline dosage immediately may result in suboptimal control of asthma symptoms.
The dose adjustment should be based on serum theophylline levels and clinical response.
Choice C is wrong because discontinuing the client’s theophylline may cause worsening of asthma and potentially life-threatening complications.
Theophylline is an important bronchodilator that should not be stopped abruptly without medical supervision.
Choice D is wrong because increasing theophylline dosage immediately may cause overdose and adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, headache, tachycardia, arrhythmias, seizures and even death.
The dose of theophylline should be carefully titrated according to serum levels and clinical response.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This strategy can help the client read the numbers on the syringe and prepare the correct dose of insulin. A magnifying glass is also an affordable and accessible tool for the client.
Choice A is wrong because preparing a week’s supply of syringes and refrigerating them can affect the potency and sterility of insulin.
It can also increase the risk of errors or confusion.
Choice B is wrong because asking a neighbor to come over every day to prepare the medication can compromise the client’s privacy and independence.
It can also be unreliable and inconvenient for both parties.
Choice D is wrong because changing the client to oral antidiabetics is not possible for type 1 diabetes.
People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin for life because their pancreas cannot make insulin.
Oral antidiabetics are only effective for people with type 2 diabetes who have functioning pancreatic beta cells
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.
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