When a patient is taking an anticholinergic such as benztropine as part of the treatment for Parkinson's disease, the nurse should include which information in the teaching plan?
Minimize the amount of fluid taken while on this drug.
Discontinue the medication if adverse effects occur.
Take the medication on an empty stomach to enhance absorption.
Use artificial saliva, sugarless gum, or hard candy to counteract dry mouth.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Minimize the amount of fluid taken while on this drug: Increasing fluid intake is actually recommended to manage potential constipation, another common side effect of anticholinergic medications.
B. Discontinue the medication if adverse effects occur: Discontinuing medication without consulting a healthcare provider is not advisable. Patients should be educated to report any adverse effects to their healthcare provider for appropriate management.
C. Take the medication on an empty stomach to enhance absorption: Benztropine is typically taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Taking it on an empty stomach may increase the risk of nausea or stomach upset.
D. Use artificial saliva, sugarless gum, or hard candy to counteract dry mouth: Anticholinergic medications such as benztropine commonly cause dry mouth as a side effect. Stimulating saliva production with these measures can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "I will need to take extra care of my teeth and gums while on this medication.": Phenytoin can cause gum overgrowth (gingival hyperplasia), so taking extra care of oral hygiene is important.
B. "I will be able to stop taking this drug once the seizures stop.": Phenytoin is typically used as a long-term therapy for seizure control; stopping abruptly can lead to rebound seizures.
C. "I can go out for a beer while on this medication.": Alcohol consumption may interact with phenytoin and should be avoided or limited.
D. "I can skip doses if the side effects bother me.": Skipping doses of phenytoin can lead to inadequate seizure control and should not be done without consulting a healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Improved ability to perform activities of daily living: Antiparkinson medications are aimed at improving motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia, leading to improved function in activities of daily living.
B. Decreased appetite: Decreased appetite is not a therapeutic response to antiparkinson medications. In fact, some medications may cause weight gain due to increased appetite.
C. Newly developed dyskinesias: Dyskinesias are involuntary movements that can occur as a side effect of long-term treatment with antiparkinson medications, particularly levodopa. They are not a therapeutic response and may require adjustments to medication.
D. Gradual development of cogwheel rigidity: Cogwheel rigidity is a symptom of Parkinson's disease and would not be expected to develop gradually with treatment. Antiparkinson
medications aim to reduce rigidity, not cause it.
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