What instruction for oral administration of methotrexate should the nurse include when teaching a client diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis?

Use an antiemetic one hour following administration.

Drink 2-3 liters of water per day.

Rinse mouth twice per day with an alcohol-based mouthwash.

Take the medication with an NSAID.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A Reason
Using an antiemetic one hour after administration of methotrexate is not a standard recommendation. Antiemetics are typically used to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy and are taken before or at the time of methotrexate administration, not afterward.

Choice B Reason
Drinking 2-3 liters of water per day is important for patients taking methotrexate to prevent kidney damage by ensuring adequate hydration and facilitating the excretion of the drug¹. Methotrexate can be nephrotoxic, and proper hydration helps to mitigate this risk.

Choice C Reason
Rinsing the mouth with an alcohol-based mouthwash is not recommended for patients taking methotrexate. Alcohol can cause drying and irritation, which might exacerbate any mouth sores caused by methotrexate. Instead, patients should use a gentle, non-alcoholic mouthwash to maintain oral hygiene.

Choice D Reason
Taking methotrexate with an NSAID is not advised without specific medical guidance. NSAIDs can increase the toxicity of methotrexate by displacing it from protein-binding sites and reducing its renal clearance, potentially leading to increased side effects.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A Reason:
A side-lying position with the head elevated may provide some comfort but is not the most effective position for reducing the work of breathing in emphysema patients. This position does not maximize lung expansion or aid in the optimal use of respiratory muscles.

Choice B Reason:
The Trendelenburg position, where the body is laid flat on the back with the feet higher than the head, is not recommended for emphysema patients as it can increase the pressure on the diaphragm, making breathing more difficult.

Choice C Reason:
Leaning over the bedside table, often referred to as the tripod position, is beneficial for emphysema patients. This position allows for the optimal use of respiratory muscles and helps to reduce the work of breathing by supporting the arms and allowing the shoulder girdle muscles to assist in the breathing process.

Choice D Reason:
Fowler's position, where the patient is seated with the legs either bent or straight out in front, may not be as effective as the tripod position for emphysema patients. While it does allow for better lung expansion than lying flat, it does not provide the same level of support for the respiratory muscles as leaning forward does.

A. The medication may cause the ankles to become swollen. B. Stop taking the medication immediately if fatigued. C. Check your pulse periodically while you are on this medication. D. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A Reason
Metoprolol, a beta-blocker, can cause fluid retention, which may lead to swelling in the ankles. However, this is not a common side effect and is not typically included as a standard warning for patients starting on metoprolol. Patients should be aware of this potential side effect but also understand that it may not occur.

Choice B Reason
Patients should not stop taking metoprolol abruptly, especially if they experience fatigue, which can be a common side effect. Abrupt cessation can lead to rebound hypertension or angina. Instead, patients should consult their healthcare provider if they experience significant fatigue that impacts their daily activities.

Choice C Reason
Checking the pulse is an important self-monitoring measure for patients on metoprolol. This medication can slow the heart rate, and patients should be instructed on how to check their pulse and what to do if it falls below a certain rate, as advised by their healthcare provider.

Choice D Reason
While staying hydrated is generally good advice, there is no specific need to drink plenty of fluids related to the use of metoprolol for angina pectoris. Patients should follow normal hydration guidelines unless otherwise directed by their healthcare provider.

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What instruction for oral administration of methotrexate should the nurse include when teaching a client diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client diagnosed with emphysema states that it is uncomfortable to sit in a semi-Fowler's position. In order to best decrease the work of breathing, the nurse should assist the client to:

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client with angina pectoris who is prescribed metoprolol 50 mg PO daily. Which information should the nurse include in the teaching?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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