A client has not responded to conservative treatment for nausea and vomiting as has subsequently been prescribed dronabinol. In addition to monitoring the client's nausea, the nurse should prioritize what assessment after administering the drug?
apical heart rate
blood pressure
skin integrity
mental status
The Correct Answer is D
A. apical heart rate: While changes in heart rate can occur as side effects of some antiemetic medications, dronabinol primarily affects the central nervous system. Cardiac monitoring is not the priority unless the client has a pre-existing heart condition.
B. blood pressure: Dronabinol may cause postural hypotension, especially in older adults, but this is generally mild and not the most urgent concern. Monitoring blood pressure is appropriate but not the top priority compared to neurologic effects.
C. skin integrity: Skin integrity is not directly impacted by dronabinol and is not a primary concern in the acute monitoring of this drug. There are no common dermatologic side effects associated with dronabinol use that would necessitate prioritizing skin assessment.
D. mental status: Dronabinol is a synthetic cannabinoid and may cause central nervous system effects such as dizziness, confusion, euphoria, or hallucinations. Assessing mental status is crucial, especially in older adults or those with a history of psychiatric illness, to identify adverse cognitive effects early.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. decrease the amount of wastes excreted: Laxatives do not reduce waste excretion; rather, they stimulate bowel movements to promote elimination. Their purpose is to relieve constipation by encouraging the evacuation of feces, not to decrease waste output.
B. improve and speed up the passage of the intestinal contents: Laxatives act by softening stool, stimulating peristalsis, or increasing water in the bowel to ease and hasten stool passage. This supports their use in treating constipation or preparing the bowel for procedures.
C. increase the digestion of stomach contents: Laxatives do not influence gastric digestion. Digestion involves enzymatic breakdown in the stomach and small intestine, while laxatives act primarily in the colon to facilitate stool movement and excretion.
D. increase absorption of the contents of the intestines: Many laxatives actually decrease absorption by accelerating transit through the intestines. The faster movement leaves less time for water and nutrients to be absorbed, often leading to looser stools.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Reduce the fiber in your diet.": Bulk-forming laxatives, such as psyllium, work similarly to dietary fiber by absorbing water and increasing stool bulk. Reducing dietary fiber would counteract the intended therapeutic effect and is not advised during treatment.
B. "This medication will make you drowsy.": Bulk-forming laxatives do not have central nervous system effects and are not associated with sedation or drowsiness. This side effect is more relevant for medications like antihistamines or opioid analgesics.
C. "Drink plenty of fluid while taking this.": Adequate fluid intake is essential when using bulk-forming laxatives to prevent intestinal obstruction. Water helps the fiber expand and form a soft, bulky stool, which promotes effective and safe bowel movements.
D. "This laxative can be addictive.": Unlike stimulant laxatives, bulk-forming agents do not cause dependency or lead to laxative abuse. They are safe for long-term use when taken with sufficient water and proper diet.
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