The nurse is caring for an older adult who is receiving diphenoxylate with atropine to treat severe diarrhea. The nurse will monitor this patient closely for which effect?
Bradycardia
Fluid retention
Nervousness and tremors
Respiratory depression
The Correct Answer is D
A. Bradycardia
Bradycardia is not a common side effect of diphenoxylate with atropine. Atropine, which is included in the combination, has anticholinergic effects that can lead to an increased heart rate (tachycardia), not bradycardia.
B. Fluid retention
Fluid retention is not a common side effect of diphenoxylate with atropine. In fact, the medication is used to treat severe diarrhea, and the goal is to decrease fluid loss associated with diarrhea rather than causing fluid retention.
C. Nervousness and tremors
Nervousness and tremors are not common side effects of diphenoxylate with atropine. Atropine's anticholinergic effects may cause nervousness, but these effects are generally not prominent at therapeutic doses.
D. Respiratory depression
This is the correct choice. Respiratory depression is a potential side effect of diphenoxylate with atropine, particularly if the medication is misused or taken in excessive amounts. Atropine is included in the combination to discourage misuse, as it can cause unpleasant anticholinergic effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "I may experience urinary retention, dry mouth, and constipation."
This statement is accurate. Urinary retention, dry mouth, and constipation are common side effects of carbidopa-levodopa. The patient should be aware of these potential side effects and report them to the healthcare provider if they become problematic.
B. "I may feel dizzy at first, but this side effect will go away with time."
This statement is accurate. Dizziness is a common initial side effect of carbidopa-levodopa, and it often improves with continued use. The patient should be encouraged to report persistent dizziness to the healthcare provider.
C. "I should report nightmares and mental disturbances to my provider."
This statement is accurate. Nightmares and mental disturbances can be side effects of carbidopa-levodopa. The patient should report these symptoms to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and potential adjustments to the medication.
D. "I should take the drug with food to increase absorption."
This statement indicates a need for further teaching. Carbidopa-levodopa is best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach. Taking it with food, especially high-protein meals, can reduce its absorption. The patient should be instructed to take the medication at least 30 minutes before meals or one to two hours after meals for optimal effectiveness.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Hypertension
Hypertension is not a specific concern related to the use of bisacodyl. Bisacodyl is a laxative, and high blood pressure is not typically considered a contraindication for its use.
B. Anemia
Anemia is not a specific concern related to the use of bisacodyl. The primary focus before administering bisacodyl is to assess for signs or symptoms of appendicitis, as its use is contraindicated in cases of suspected appendicitis.
C. Allergy to penicillin
Allergy to penicillin is not relevant in the context of administering bisacodyl. These are unrelated medications with different mechanisms of action, and allergy to penicillin does not impact the administration of bisacodyl.
D. Appendicitis
This is the correct choice. Before administering bisacodyl, it is crucial to assess the patient for signs or symptoms of appendicitis. The use of bisacodyl is contraindicated in cases of suspected appendicitis, as it may stimulate bowel activity and worsen the condition.
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