A client has been prescribed ciprofloxacin 400 mg intravenously (IV) every 12 hours to be infused over an hour.

The IV bag contains ciprofloxacin 400 mg in dextrose 5% in water (D5W) 200 mL. How many mL/hour should the nurse program the infusion pump to deliver? (Enter numerical value only.)

Choice A rationale

While it’s understandable that the patient’s daughter wants to delay the use of medication until her mother’s symptoms worsen, this approach may not be beneficial. Rivastigmine, a cholinesterase inhibitor, is used to treat mild to moderate dementia caused by Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. It is not a cure for Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease, but it can help manage the symptoms. Waiting until the symptoms worsen may not provide the desired benefits and could potentially lead to a faster progression of the disease.

Choice B rationale

Rivastigmine is most effective when used early in the disease process. It works by increasing the concentration of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, through reversible inhibition of its hydrolysis by cholinesterase. This can help improve the function of nerve cells in the brain and can slow the progression of symptoms in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, starting the medication early can help manage the symptoms and potentially slow the progression of the disease.

Choice C rationale

While assessing the patient’s current mental status is an important part of care, it should not be the sole factor in deciding when to start medication. The decision to start medication should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s condition, including the stage of the disease, the patient’s overall health, and the potential benefits and risks of the medication.

Choice D rationale

While it’s important for the daughter to understand the progressive nature of Alzheimer’s disease, this understanding alone does not determine when to start medication. The decision to start medication should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s condition and the potential benefits and risks of the medication.

Choice A rationale

Risedronate should be taken with a full glass of plain water on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before any food, beverage, or other medicines. This is because food and beverages can decrease the absorption of risedronate.

Choice B rationale

Delaying the medication until the patient’s breakfast tray arrives would not be appropriate, as risedronate needs to be taken on an empty stomach.

Choice C rationale

Consulting with a pharmacist about administering the dose one hour post-meal would not be appropriate, as risedronate should be taken on an empty stomach.

Choice D rationale

Assigning an unlicensed assistive personnel to bring the patient a glass of low-fat milk would not be appropriate, as risedronate should be taken with plain water.