A 73-year-old male patient is in the clinic for a yearly physical and is asking for a prescription for sildenafil. He has listed on his health history that he is taking a nitrate for angina. The nurse is aware that which problem may occur if sildenafil is taken with a nitrate?
Reduced effectiveness of the sildenafil
Significant increase in pulse rate
Increased risk of bleeding
Significant decrease in blood pressure
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because sildenafil and nitrates do not affect each other's effectiveness, but rather their side effects. Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor that enhances the effect of nitric oxide, which causes vasodilation and increases blood flow to the penis. Nitrates are vasodilators that also increase nitric oxide levels and reduce the workload of the heart.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because sildenafil and nitrates do not cause a significant increase in pulse rate, but rather a decrease. This is because the vasodilation caused by both drugs lowers the blood pressure and the cardiac output, which reduces the heart rate.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because sildenafil and nitrates do not increase the risk of bleeding, unless they are combined with other drugs that affect the blood clotting process, such as anticoagulants or antiplatelets.
Choice D reason: This is correct because sildenafil and nitrates can cause a significant decrease in blood pressure when taken together, as they both cause vasodilation and increase nitric oxide levels. This can lead to hypotension, dizziness, fainting, or even a heart attack or stroke. The patient should avoid taking sildenafil and nitrates within 24 hours of each other.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because the patient may not see a response from the medication for at least six months. The patient should continue taking the medication as prescribed and follow up with the provider regularly.
Choice B reason: This is correct because finasteride can cause birth defects in male fetuses if it is absorbed through the skin or ingested by pregnant women. The patient should wear gloves when handling the tablets and avoid contact with crushed or broken tablets.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because PSA levels will decrease while taking this medication. PSA stands for prostate-specific antigen, which is a marker for prostate cancer. The patient should inform the provider that they are taking finasteride before having a PSA test, as it may affect the results.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect because grapefruit juice does not interact with finasteride. However, the patient should avoid alcohol and other medications that may affect the liver while taking finasteride.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Tachycardia is a possible adverse effect of theophylline, as it is a methylxanthine that stimulates the central nervous system and the cardiac muscle. The nurse should instruct the client to monitor their pulse rate and report any palpitations, chest pain, or irregular heartbeat.

Choice B reason: Drowsiness is not a likely adverse effect of theophylline, as it is a stimulant that increases alertness and energy. The nurse should caution the client to avoid taking the medication close to bedtime, as it may cause insomnia.
Choice C reason: Constipation is not a common adverse effect of theophylline, as it does not affect the gastrointestinal motility or secretion. The nurse should advise the client to maintain a balanced diet, adequate fluid intake, and regular exercise to prevent constipation.
Choice D reason: Oliguria is not a typical adverse effect of theophylline, as it does not impair the renal function or cause fluid retention. The nurse should encourage the client to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration and maintain a normal urine output.
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