A client with symptoms of influenza that started the previous day asks the clinic nurse about taking oseltamivir to treat the infection.
Which response should the nurse provide?
Explain to the client that antibiotics are not useful in treating viral infections such as influenza.
Advise the client that once symptoms occur it is too late to receive an influenza vaccination.
Refer the client to the healthcare provider at the clinic to obtain a medication prescription.
Instruct the client that over-the-counter medications are sufficient to manage influenza symptoms.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
It is true that antibiotics are not effective against viruses like influenza. They only work against bacteria.
However, while providing this information to the client is accurate, it does not directly address the client's inquiry about taking oseltamivir, which is an antiviral medication.
It's essential for the nurse to guide the client toward the appropriate healthcare provider who can assess the client's condition and make an informed decision about whether oseltamivir is a suitable treatment option.
Choice B rationale:
While it is true that influenza vaccination is most effective when given before exposure to the virus, it is still a relevant consideration even after symptoms have begun.
Studies have shown that antiviral medications like oseltamivir can potentially reduce the severity and duration of influenza symptoms, even when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Therefore, simply advising the client that it's too late for vaccination without exploring other potential treatment options would be incomplete and potentially disadvantageous to the client's care.
Choice C rationale:
This is the most appropriate response because it ensures that the client receives a comprehensive assessment and individualized treatment plan from a qualified healthcare provider.
The provider can evaluate the client's symptoms, medical history, and potential risk factors to determine if oseltamivir is a suitable medication.
Additionally, the provider can discuss other potential treatment options, such as over-the-counter medications for symptom relief, and provide guidance on self-care measures to promote recovery.
Choice D rationale:
While over-the-counter medications can help manage some symptoms of influenza, such as fever, aches, and cough, they do not directly target the virus itself.
Antiviral medications like oseltamivir can potentially shorten the duration of the illness and reduce the risk of complications, especially in individuals at higher risk.
Therefore, relying solely on over-the-counter medications without considering antiviral therapy could potentially delay recovery and increase the likelihood of adverse outcomes.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale for Choice A: Dysrhythmia
There is no information in the question stem to suggest that the patient is experiencing a dysrhythmia.
Dysrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that can be caused by a variety of factors, including heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, and medications.
While it is possible that the patient could develop a dysrhythmia as a complication of pneumonia, there is no evidence to support this in the given information.
Additionally, enalapril, which the patient is taking for hypertension, is not typically associated with an increased risk of dysrhythmias.
Rationale for Choice B: Toxicity
There is no information in the question stem to suggest that the patient is experiencing toxicity.
Toxicity can be caused by a variety of substances, including medications, drugs, and environmental toxins.
While it is possible that the patient could develop toxicity as a complication of pneumonia, there is no evidence to support this in the given information.
Additionally, the patient's medication regimen of enalapril and a multivitamin is not typically associated with an increased risk of toxicity.
Rationale for Choice C: Anemia
There is no information in the question stem to suggest that the patient is anemic.
Anemia is a condition in which there is a decreased number of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood.
While it is possible that the patient could develop anemia as a complication of pneumonia, there is no evidence to support this in the given information.
Additionally, the patient's surgical history of adenoid removal and a fractured tibia is not typically associated with an increased risk of anemia.
Rationale for Choice D: Pneumonia
The patient is a 51-year-old male with a diagnosis of pneumonia.
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
The patient's symptoms, such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing, are all consistent with a diagnosis of pneumonia.
Additionally, the patient's medical history of hypertension does not rule out pneumonia, and in fact, some studies have shown that hypertension may be a risk factor for developing pneumonia.
Therefore, pneumonia is the most likely condition that the patient has based on the information provided.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Famotidine is a histamine-2 receptor antagonist (H2RA) that decreases gastric acid secretion. It is often used to treat conditions such as ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and heartburn.
Bismuth subsalicylate, metronidazole, tetracycline, and pantoprazole are all medications used in the treatment of H. pylori infection. However, these medications can interact with famotidine, potentially leading to decreased efficacy or increased side effects.
Therefore, it is important for the nurse to review the client's electronic medical record for any current or recent use of famotidine before administering the H. pylori treatment regimen. This will help to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.
Choice B rationale:
Loperamide is an antidiarrheal medication. It is not typically used in the treatment of H. pylori infection and is not known to interact with the medications used in this regimen.
Choice C rationale:
Aspirin is a salicylate medication that is often used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. It can also be used to prevent blood clots. However, aspirin can interact with bismuth subsalicylate, potentially leading to increased risk of bleeding.
Therefore, it is important for the nurse to assess the client's risk of bleeding before administering the H. pylori treatment regimen if they are also taking aspirin.
Choice D rationale:
Ipratropium is a bronchodilator medication that is used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is not typically used in the treatment of H. pylori infection and is not known to interact with the medications used in this regimen.
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