The nurse is planning to administer two medications to a client at 0900. Which property of the drugs, if shared by both drugs, indicates a need to closely monitor the client for drug toxicity?
Low bioavailability.
Short half life.
Highly protein bound.
High therapeutic index.
The Correct Answer is C
The property of the drugs that, if shared by both, indicates a need to closely monitor the client for drug toxicity is:
Highly protein bound.
When a drug is highly protein bound, it means that a significant portion of the drug molecules bind to proteins in the bloodstream. This binding can affect the availability and distribution of the drug in the body. If two drugs are highly protein bound and administered together, they may compete for binding sites on the proteins, leading to increased levels of unbound (free) drug in the bloodstream. This can result in higher drug concentrations and an increased risk of drug toxicity.
Closely monitoring the client for drug toxicity is necessary when drugs are highly protein bound because there is a potential for increased drug levels and associated adverse effects. Monitoring for signs and symptoms of drug toxicity, as well as routine laboratory tests to assess liver and kidney function, may be necessary in these cases.
The other properties listed do not necessarily indicate a need for closer monitoring for drug toxicity:
- Low bioavailability refers to the fraction of an administered dose that reaches the systemic circulation in an active form. While low bioavailability can affect the effectiveness of a drug, it does not directly imply a need for closer monitoring for drug toxicity.
- Short half-life refers to the time it takes for half of the drug concentration in the body to be eliminated. While drugs with short half-lives may require more frequent dosing, this property does not inherently suggest a need for closer monitoring for drug toxicity.
- High therapeutic index indicates a wide margin of safety for a drug, meaning that the effective dose is significantly lower than the toxic dose. A high therapeutic index implies that the drug has a wide safety margin and is less likely to cause drug toxicity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) This can be done if initial non-pharmacological interventions do not relieve symptoms, but it is not the first step.
B) Monitoring blood pressure is important, but it is secondary to removing the stimulus causing the dysreflexia.
C) Incorrect- While education is important for long-term management, the client is currently experiencing symptoms that need immediate attention. The priority is to assess and address the current symptoms.
D) The client is likely experiencing autonomic dysreflexia, characterized by a sudden and severe increase in blood pressure, flushing, headache, and other symptoms triggered by a noxious stimulus below the level of injury. The first step in managing autonomic dysreflexia is to identify and eliminate the triggering stimulus. For clients with a Foley catheter, a common cause of autonomic dysreflexia is bladder distention due to a kinked or obstructed catheter. Relieving any kinks or obstructions in the Foley tubing can immediately alleviate the symptoms.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Situation: Increasing confusion of the client.
The nurse should start by providing the current situation, which is the client's increasing confusion. This is crucial information as it indicates a change in the client's condition and may require immediate attention.
Background: Fall at home as reason for admission.
Next, the nurse should provide the background information, which includes the reason for admission, in this case, the fall at home. This helps the healthcare provider understand the context and potential contributing factors to the client's current condition. Assessment: Currently prescribed medications.
After providing the background, the nurse should discuss the assessment findings. In this case, it would be appropriate to mention the client's currently prescribed medications. This information can help the healthcare provider assess for any medication-related issues or interactions that could be contributing to the client's confusion.
Recommendation: Client's healthcare power of attorney.
Lastly, the nurse should provide the recommendation, which in this case is the client's healthcare power of attorney. This information is important as it identifies the designated decision-maker for the client's healthcare decisions and can assist the healthcare provider in involving the appropriate person in the care planning process.
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