A client receives a prescription for methotrexate. Which information provided by the client requires additional instruction by the nurse?
Obtain a platelet count weekly.
Take the medication during pregnancy.
Use folic acid to protect the liver.
Store the medication at room temperature.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Obtain a platelet count weekly: Regular monitoring of platelet counts is important for clients on methotrexate due to the risk of bone marrow suppression and potential thrombocytopenia. This instruction is appropriate and necessary.
B. Take the medication during pregnancy: Methotrexate is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its teratogenic effects and potential to cause fetal harm. It is crucial for clients to avoid using methotrexate while pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
C. Use folic acid to protect the liver: While folic acid is often used to help reduce the side effects of methotrexate, particularly its gastrointestinal effects and potential for liver toxicity, it is not used to "protect the liver" per se. The correct approach is to use folic acid as directed by a healthcare provider, often to mitigate some of the side effects of methotrexate.
D. Store the medication at room temperature: Methotrexate should be stored according to the manufacturer's instructions, which usually involve keeping it at room temperature. This information is correct and does not require additional instruction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Alternate the use of each nostril when administering the nasal spray each day: Alternating nostrils can help reduce local irritation and rhinitis associated with the use of nasal spray medications. This practice allows each nostril to recover and reduces the risk of continuous irritation from the spray.
B. Do not lie down within thirty minutes of use of the nasal spray: While this can help ensure the medication is absorbed properly, it is not specifically aimed at reducing rhinitis. It is more important to manage irritation by alternating nostrils.
C. Use a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) PRN to reduce any inflammation that may occur: NSAIDs might not be suitable for everyone, and using them could mask symptoms or lead to additional side effects. They are not a primary strategy for managing rhinitis caused by nasal spray use.
D. Take an over-the-counter antihistamine with each daily dose of nasal spray: Antihistamines are not typically used to manage rhinitis caused by nasal sprays. Additionally, combining medications should be done cautiously and usually under medical advice.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Protect the skin from sunlight while taking the drug: Tetracycline is known to increase sensitivity to sunlight, leading to a higher risk of sunburn and skin reactions. Advising clients to protect their skin from sun exposure and to use sunscreen is essential to prevent these adverse effects. This precaution helps mitigate the risk of photosensitivity reactions that are commonly associated with tetracycline use.
B) Take with orange juice to enhance gastrointestinal (GI) absorption: Tetracycline should not be taken with dairy products or antacids, as they can bind with the medication and reduce its absorption. While orange juice can enhance absorption, this is not a standard recommendation for tetracycline. Instead, it is generally advised to take tetracycline with water and avoid substances that could interfere with its absorption.
C) Return to the clinic weekly to obtain serum drug levels: Tetracycline typically does not require regular monitoring of serum drug levels, as it does not have a narrow therapeutic index like some other drugs. Instead, patients are generally advised on how to manage side effects and adherence to the medication regimen, rather than frequent clinic visits for drug level monitoring.
D) Take with milk or antacids to prevent gastrointestinal (GI) irritation: Milk and antacids should be avoided when taking tetracycline because they can bind to the medication and significantly reduce its effectiveness. This instruction could lead to decreased therapeutic efficacy and should be avoided. Tetracycline should be taken on an empty stomach to ensure optimal absorption, avoiding interactions with these substances.
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