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 A
Explanation
A. “I will not need to know how to check my body temperature.”:
This statement is incorrect. Monitoring body temperature is important for patients receiving chemotherapy because a compromised immune system increases the risk of infection. Fever can be an early sign of infection, and patients are often instructed to monitor their temperature regularly.
B. “Chemotherapy is excreted in my bodily fluids.”:
This statement is correct. Chemotherapy drugs can be excreted in various bodily fluids, such as urine, sweat, and saliva. Patients are advised to take precautions to avoid exposing others to these bodily fluids during and shortly after chemotherapy.
C. “My spouse will wear gloves when emptying my urinal.”:
This statement is correct. To reduce the risk of exposure to chemotherapy drugs in urine, it is advisable for caregivers, such as spouses, to wear gloves when handling bodily fluids.
D. “The chemotherapy will remain in my body for 2-3 days.”:
This statement is correct. The duration during which chemotherapy remains in the body can vary depending on the specific drugs administered. Patients are typically provided with guidelines on how long they need to take precautions to minimize exposure to others.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. “This medication is a leading cause of bronchospasm.”
Glucocorticoid inhalers are not a leading cause of bronchospasm. In fact, they are often prescribed to reduce inflammation and prevent bronchospasm in conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
B. “This medication will cause you to become fatigued.”
Fatigue is not a common side effect of inhaled glucocorticoids. Systemic effects are more likely with oral or intravenous administration, whereas inhaled forms are designed to have localized effects.
C. “You must gargle and rinse your mouth immediately after each use of this medication.”
Inhaled glucocorticoids can sometimes lead to local side effects, such as oral candidiasis (thrush) or hoarseness. Gargling and rinsing the mouth after using the inhaler can help minimize these side effects by reducing the risk of fungal overgrowth in the mouth and throat.
D. “This medication may cause you to feel anxious.”
Anxiety is not a common side effect of inhaled glucocorticoids. Again, systemic effects are more associated with other routes of administration. The use of inhaled glucocorticoids is generally well-tolerated when used as directed.
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