A client has the feeling of having “chest tightness” while experiencing “cold-like” symptoms. Her cough is nonproductive. Her physician prescribed guaifenesin (Mucinex) to help with secretions.
When teaching about this medication, what should the nurse instruct? (Select all that apply)
“Drink extra water while taking this medication.”
“Monitor urine output closely.”
“Take it with an oral antihistamine for better effectiveness.”
“Avoid driving or using heavy machinery while on this medication.”
Correct Answer : A
A. “Drink extra water while taking this medication.”
This is correct. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways. Drinking extra water helps to enhance its effectiveness by keeping the patient well-hydrated.
B. “Monitor urine output closely.”
Monitoring urine output is not typically necessary with guaifenesin. It does not have a diuretic effect, and excessive monitoring of urine output may not be relevant in this context.
C. “Take it with an oral antihistamine for better effectiveness.”
Guaifenesin is often used in combination with other medications, but taking it with an oral antihistamine is not a standard recommendation. The combination should be based on the specific guidance of the healthcare provider.
D. “Avoid driving or using heavy machinery while on this medication.”
Guaifenesin does not typically cause sedation or impairment, so there is generally no need to avoid driving or using heavy machinery. This instruction may not be necessary for this medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Incorrect. Methotrexate is a chemotherapy drug and an immunosuppressant but not an antibiotic. It inhibits the metabolism of folic acid, which is necessary for cell replication, but it does not have antibiotic properties.
Choice B rationale: Incorrect. Antiestrogens are a class of drugs used to treat hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer by blocking the effects of estrogen. They are not antibiotics and do not have antimicrobial properties.
Choice C rationale: Incorrect. Corticosteroids are used in cancer treatment primarily to reduce inflammation and manage side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea and allergic reactions. They have immunosuppressive properties but are not antibiotics.
Choice D rationale: Correct. Doxorubicin (Doxil) is an antitumor drug that also has antibiotic properties. It belongs to the anthracycline class of chemotherapy drugs and works by intercalating DNA, disrupting the replication and transcription processes, leading to cell death. Doxorubicin was originally derived from the bacterium Streptomyces peucetius, which imparts its antibiotic properties.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Is a first-line drug currently to treat COPD
Methylxanthines are not considered first-line drugs for the treatment of COPD. They are often reserved for use when other bronchodilators (such as beta-agonists and anticholinergics) are not effective or well-tolerated.
B. Is considered toxic if theophylline levels are between 5-15 mcg/mL
The therapeutic range for theophylline levels is generally considered to be lower, typically 5-15 mcg/mL. However, toxicity can occur at levels above the therapeutic range, and symptoms can vary between individuals.
C. Has fewer major side effects than beta-agonists and glucocorticoids
Methylxanthines can have side effects, and their use is associated with a risk of toxicity. Beta-agonists and glucocorticoids are often preferred as first-line treatments due to their efficacy and a more favorable side effect profile.
D. Has the potential to cause central nervous system side effects, especially if levels are elevated
Methylxanthines, such as theophylline, are bronchodilators that can be used in the treatment of respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, they have a narrow therapeutic window, and elevated levels can lead to toxicity. Central nervous system side effects, such as restlessness, insomnia, and seizures, can occur with elevated theophylline levels.
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