A 45-year-old patient presents to the clinic with persistent nasal congestion that has worsened despite frequent use of an over-the-counter nasal decongestant for the past three weeks. Which of the following is the most appropriate nursing intervention?
Advise the patient to continue using the nasal decongestant but reduce the frequency to once daily.
Suggest increasing the dosage of the current nasal decongestant to manage congestion.
Educate the patient on discontinuing the nasal decongestant and recommend a saline nasal spray for symptom relief.
Prescribe a stronger nasal decongestant to alleviate symptoms more effectively.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Advise the patient to continue using the nasal decongestant but reduce the frequency to once daily: Continued use, even at a reduced frequency, may not resolve the underlying issue. Prolonged use of topical nasal decongestants can lead to rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa), which won't improve without discontinuation.
B. Suggest increasing the dosage of the current nasal decongestant to manage congestion: Increasing the dosage worsens rebound congestion and the dependence cycle. Higher doses can also raise the risk of systemic side effects such as elevated blood pressure or tachycardia.
C. Educate the patient on discontinuing the nasal decongestant and recommend a saline nasal spray for symptom relief: This is the most appropriate intervention. Rebound congestion is best managed by stopping the decongestant. Saline sprays help moisturize nasal passages and reduce symptoms safely during withdrawal.
D. Prescribe a stronger nasal decongestant to alleviate symptoms more effectively: A stronger formulation would likely exacerbate the problem. The key to managing rhinitis medicamentosa is breaking the cycle of decongestant overuse, not intensifying it.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "I should maintain a consistent sodium intake in my diet.": Sodium levels directly affect lithium levels in the body. Fluctuations in sodium intake can lead to lithium toxicity or subtherapeutic effects. A consistent sodium intake helps maintain stable lithium blood levels.
B. "I should have regular blood tests to monitor my lithium levels.": Lithium has a narrow therapeutic range and can become toxic if levels rise too high. Regular monitoring is essential to ensure safe and effective treatment, especially during dose adjustments or illness.
C. "It's important to restrict my fluid intake while taking this medication.": This statement is incorrect and indicates a need for further teaching. Fluid restriction can lead to dehydration, increasing lithium reabsorption in the kidneys and raising the risk of toxicity. Clients should maintain adequate hydration, especially during hot weather or illness.
D. "I need to report any signs of nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea to my doctor.": These are early signs of lithium toxicity. Prompt reporting is crucial so that lithium levels can be checked and treatment adjusted to prevent progression to severe toxicity.
Correct Answer is ["0.075"]
Explanation
Given quantity = 75 mcg (micrograms)
Desired unit = mg (milligrams)
Convert from mcg to mg
1 mg = 1000 mcg
75 mcg / 1000 mcg/mg
= 0.075 mg
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