The practical nurse (PN) is preparing a client for discharge who receives a prescription for oral prednisone to treat a severe allergic reaction. Which teaching about medication administration should the PN reinforce?
Take on an empty stomach.
Take before bedtime.
Take only as needed.
Take with food.
The Correct Answer is D
Taking oral prednisone with food helps to minimize gastrointestinal side effects such as stomach irritation and upset. Food acts as a protective barrier for the stomach lining, reducing the risk of irritation caused by the medication. Additionally, taking prednisone with food can help improve its absorption and distribution in the body.
The other options mentioned are incorrect:
A- "Take on an empty stomach": This is incorrect because taking prednisone on an empty stomach can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. It is generally recommended to take prednisone with food to minimize these side effects.
B- "Take before bedtime": This is incorrect as there is no specific timing requirement for taking prednisone before bedtime. The timing of prednisone administration should be based on the individual's needs and the instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
C- "Take only as needed": This is incorrect because prednisone is typically prescribed with specific dosing instructions. It is important for the client to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and not take it "as needed" unless instructed otherwise by the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","F","G"]
Explanation
Ataxia: Phenytoin can cause problems with coordination and balance, leading to ataxia. The PN should monitor the client for unsteady gait or difficulty with movements.
Drowsiness: Phenytoin can cause drowsiness or sedation. The PN should observe the client for excessive sleepiness or difficulty staying awake.
Altered blood coagulation: Phenytoin can affect blood clotting factors, potentially leading to altered blood coagulation. The PN should assess the client for any signs of bleeding or bruising.
Vertigo: Phenytoin can cause dizziness or vertigo, which is a spinning sensation. The PN should be alert for complaints of dizziness or any difficulty with balance.
Visual disturbances: Phenytoin can cause visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or double vision. The PN should monitor the client's vision and report any changes.
The following options are incorrect regarding the toxic effects of phenytoin:
- Anxiety: Anxiety is not a recognized toxic effect of phenytoin. However, it is important to assess the client for any signs of anxiety or emotional changes.
- Aphasia: Aphasia refers to a language impairment and is not typically associated with the toxic effects of phenytoin.
- Vomiting: While phenytoin can cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, it is not directly related to its toxic effects. However, the PN should still monitor the client for any signs of nausea or vomiting.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
When admitting a client with complications of left-sided heart failure, the practical nurse (PN) should prioritize assessing the client's bilateral lung sounds. Left-sided heart failure can result in the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, leading to pulmonary congestion and impaired gas exchange. By auscultating the client's lung sounds, the PN can assess for the presence of crackles, wheezes, or diminished breath sounds, which are indicative of pulmonary congestion and fluid accumulation. This assessment helps to identify the severity of the client's condition and guides further interventions and treatment.
While assessing heart sounds (option a) is important in evaluating cardiac function, assessing lung sounds takes priority as pulmonary congestion is a common manifestation of left-sided heart failure. Chest pain (option b) is a significant symptom that should be assessed promptly, but in this scenario, the focus is on assessing for signs of pulmonary congestion and impaired gas exchange. Assessing the client's mood and affect (option d) is important for a comprehensive assessment, but it is not the priority when the client is admitted with complications of left-sided heart failure.
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