A client with Parkinson's disease is started on Levodopa with Carbidopa (Sinemet). What should the nurse include in the patient teaching?
"Carbidopa crosses the blood-brain barrier where it is then converted to dopamine."
"It may take weeks to begin seeing the effects of this medication."
“You will remain on the same dosage of this medication for the rest of your life."
"Levodopa protects carbidopa, preventing carbidopa from being broken down before it reaches the brain."
The Correct Answer is B
A. Carbidopa itself does not cross the blood-brain barrier. Its primary role in Sinemet is to inhibit the peripheral breakdown of levodopa (the precursor of dopamine) into dopamine before it reaches the brain.
B. It is true that it may take a few weeks to see the full effects of this medication, as the body needs time to adjust to it.
C. Parkinson's disease is progressive, and as the disease advances, the dosage and frequency of levodopa with carbidopa may need to be adjusted to maintain symptom control. Over time, higher doses or additional medications may be required to manage symptoms effectively.
D. Levodopa does not protect Carbidopa; rather, Carbidopa protects Levodopa from early conversion to dopamine outside the brain, which would make it less effective.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Heparin is an anticoagulant medication used primarily to prevent and treat blood clots. It does not directly affect cardiac output or ejection fraction.
B. Adenosine is used to treat supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) by slowing conduction through the AV node. It does not directly affect cardiac output or ejection fraction in the context of heart failure.
C. Warfarin is an anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots. Similar to heparin, it does not affect cardiac output or ejection fraction.
D. Digoxin is a medication that increases the strength and efficiency of heart contractions (positive inotropic effect) and slows the heart rate (negative chronotropic effect). It is commonly used in heart failure to improve symptoms and increase cardiac output by enhancing the heart's ability to pump blood effectively.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Headache is a common side effect of nitroglycerin due to its vasodilatory effects, especially in the head. Most headaches associated with nitroglycerin are mild and transient. Patients are generally advised to continue using the medication as prescribed unless the headache is severe or persistent.
B. Nitroglycerin tablets are used for the immediate relief of angina symptoms. If the first tablet does not adequately relieve chest pain within 5 minutes, the patient can take a second tablet. If the pain persists after the second tablet, emergency medical attention should be sought. However, it's important to note that the maximum number of tablets that can be taken within a short period should be specified by the healthcare provider, typically 2 or 3 tablets in 15 to 30 minutes.
C. Nitroglycerin can cause orthostatic hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure upon standing up. This can lead to dizziness or fainting. Therefore, patients should be advised to stand up slowly after taking nitroglycerin to minimize the risk of falls or injury.
D. Nitroglycerin tablets are sensitive to light, heat, and moisture, which can reduce their effectiveness over time. Therefore, it's recommended to replace nitroglycerin tablets every 3 to 6 months to ensure potency and effectiveness.
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