A child weighing 55 lb has been prescribed cefotaxime at a dosage of 150 mg/kg/day, to be administered in divided doses every 6 hours.

How many mg should the nurse administer each day? (Provide a numerical value only.)

Choice A rationale

Nitroglycerin is a medication that is commonly used to treat chest pain or angina. However, it is contraindicated in patients who have taken sildenafil (Viagra) within the last 24 hours due to the risk of severe hypotension, or low blood pressure. Sildenafil is a type of medication known as a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor, which works by relaxing the muscles in the walls of blood vessels. Nitroglycerin also works by relaxing blood vessels, so the combination of these two medications can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

Choice B rationale

Aspirin is not typically withheld in patients experiencing chest pain. It is often given to patients who are suspected of having a heart attack because it works by preventing blood clots from forming and blocking the blood vessels of the heart.

Choice C rationale

Morphine is often administered to patients experiencing severe chest pain to help relieve the pain and reduce the workload of the heart. It is not typically withheld unless the patient has a known allergy or other contraindication.

Choice D rationale

Heparin is a blood thinner that is often administered to patients who are suspected of having a heart attack to prevent further blood clots from forming. It is not typically withheld unless the patient has a known allergy, other contraindication, or is at high risk of bleeding.

The correct answer is D. The practical nurse (PN) who is assisting the registered nurse (RN) with the care of a group of clients is best assigned to an adult who is one day postoperative for a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This client’s care involves routine postoperative care and monitoring, which is within the PN’s scope of practice. The other clients have more complex needs that require the higher level of education and skills of an RN.