Which information obtained by the nurse about a patient who has been taking prednisone 40 mg daily for 3 weeks is most important to report to the health care provider?
Patient stopped taking the medication 2 days ago.
Patient's blood pressure is 148/94 mm Hg.
Patient has bilateral 2+ pitting ankle edema.
Patient has not been taking the prescribed vitamin D.
The Correct Answer is B
Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that can cause a range of side effects, including fluid retention, electrolyte imbalance, and increased blood pressure. A blood pressure reading of 148/94 mm Hg indicates hypertension, which may be related to the use of prednisone. It is essential to report this finding to the health care provider as it may require further evaluation and management, such as adjusting the medication dosage or initiating additional treatments to control blood pressure. The other information provided, such as stopping the medication, ankle edema, and not taking prescribed vitamin D, is relevant but does not pose an immediate threat to the patient's health compared to uncontrolled hypertension.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Antacids work by raising the pH level in the stomach, which means they make the stomach less acidic. This helps to reduce the symptoms of heartburn associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). By increasing the pH, antacids help to neutralize the excess stomach acid that can cause irritation of the esophagus and lead to heartburn. However, it's important to note that antacids provide temporary relief and do not treat the underlying cause of GERD.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Notify the surgeon that the informed consent process is not complete.The nurse should inform the surgeon because the surgeon is responsible for ensuring that the patient has adequate information and understands the procedure. It is not appropriate for the nurse to proceed with the consent process if the patient has questions or uncertainties.
B. Notify the operating room nurse to give a more complete explanation of the procedure.While the operating room nurse plays a role in the surgical process, it is the surgeon’s responsibility to provide a complete explanation of the procedure.
C. Provide a thorough explanation of the planned surgical procedure.While it’s important to provide information, the nurse is not authorized to explain the surgical procedure in detail. The surgeon should explain the surgery, as they have the training and knowledge to address all aspects of the procedure and answer any specific questions.
D. Give the prescribed preoperative antibiotics and withhold sedative medications.Administering preoperative medications, including antibiotics, without completed informed consent would be inappropriate. The patient must fully understand the procedure and consent to it before any medications are given.
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