A nurse in an outpatient clinic is caring for a client.
Select the 6 statements the nurse should include when reinforcing teaching to the client about the newly prescribed medication
"Do not take more than 200 milligrams of this medication within 24 hours.”
"You can take a second dose of this medication at least 2 hours after the initial dose if the headache persists.”
"You should discontinue this medication if pregnancy is planned or suspected.”
"You might experience a rash on your skin while taking this medication."
"You might experience a feeling of pressure in your chest after taking this medication."
"This medication can cause you to feel tired."
"This medication should start to alleviate the headache within 1 hour."
Correct Answer : A,B,C,E,F,G
A. "Do not take more than 200 milligrams of this medication within 24 hours." This statement is correct for oral sumatriptan, which has a maximum recommended dose of 200 mg per 24 hours. Clients can take one 50 mg or 100 mg dose initially, and if the headache persists, a second dose can be taken after at least 2 hours, provided the total daily dose does not exceed 200 mg.
B. "You can take a second dose of this medication at least 2 hours after the initial dose if the headache persists." A second dose of sumatriptan can be taken at least 2 hours after the first dose if the headache has not fully resolved. However, if the headache persists after the maximum daily dose (200 mg), the client should not take additional doses and should seek medical evaluation.
C. "You should discontinue this medication if pregnancy is planned or suspected." Sumatriptan is classified as Pregnancy Category C, meaning its effects on fetal development are not well studied. Clients who are pregnant or planning to conceive should consult their healthcare provider before using this medication.
D. "You might experience a rash on your skin while taking this medication." Skin rash is not a common side effect of sumatriptan. If a rash develops, it could indicate an allergic reaction, which should be reported to a provider. However, routine monitoring for rashes is not necessary when taking sumatriptan.
E. "You might experience a feeling of pressure in your chest after taking this medication." Chest tightness or pressure is a known side effect of sumatriptan due to its vasoconstrictive effects. This sensation is usually temporary and not dangerous, but if it becomes severe or persistent, the client should seek medical attention to rule out cardiovascular complications.
F. "This medication can cause you to feel tired." Fatigue, drowsiness, and dizziness are common side effects of sumatriptan. Clients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
G. "This medication should start to alleviate the headache within 1 hour." Sumatriptan typically begins to relieve migraine symptoms within 30 to 60 minutes when taken orally. If the headache does not improve after 2 hours, a second dose may be taken, but the total daily dose should not exceed 200 mg.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Anorexia. Anorexia is a common side effect of sulfasalazine and is usually mild. It occurs due to the drug’s gastrointestinal effects but does not require immediate intervention. Managing symptoms with dietary modifications or taking the medication with food can help alleviate discomfort.
B. Arthralgia. Joint pain (arthralgia) can develop as a side effect of sulfasalazine, sometimes due to a drug-induced lupus-like reaction. Although it can cause discomfort, it is not immediately life-threatening. Monitoring symptoms and adjusting treatment may help manage this condition.
C. Nausea. Nausea frequently occurs with sulfasalazine use and is typically mild. It is often dose-dependent and can be managed by taking the medication with meals. While persistent nausea may require adjustments, it is not a medical emergency.
D. Wheezing. Wheezing suggests a hypersensitivity reaction, which can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening emergency. Sulfasalazine contains a sulfa component, which may trigger bronchospasm, angioedema, or respiratory distress. Immediate intervention, including discontinuing the drug and administering emergency treatment, is necessary.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Varenicline. Varenicline is used to aid smoking cessation by reducing nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It does not have a role in managing acute alcohol withdrawal and would not be effective in preventing withdrawal-related complications.
B. Diazepam. Diazepam, a benzodiazepine, is commonly used to manage acute alcohol withdrawal by preventing seizures, reducing agitation, and alleviating autonomic hyperactivity (e.g., tachycardia, hypertension). It enhances GABA activity, which helps counteract the excitatory effects of alcohol withdrawal, reducing the risk of delirium tremens (DTs).
C. Clonidine. Clonidine is an alpha-2 agonist that helps control autonomic symptoms such as elevated blood pressure and heart rate. While it may be used as an adjunct therapy, it does not prevent seizures or delirium, making it insufficient as a primary treatment for alcohol withdrawal.
D. Methadone. Methadone is used for opioid withdrawal and maintenance therapy in opioid dependence. It does not alleviate alcohol withdrawal symptoms or prevent complications such as seizures or delirium, making it inappropriate for this condition.
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