A nurse is administering 4 mg of hydromorphone to a client by mouth every 4 hr. The medication is provided as hydromorphone 8 mg per tablet. Which of the following actions is appropriate for the nurse to take?
Return the remaining medication to the facility's pharmacy.
Dispose of the remaining ’edication while another nurse observes.
Store the remaining half of the pill in the automated medication dispensing system.
Place the remaining half of the pill in the unit-dose package.
None
None
The Correct Answer is B
Answer: B. Dispose of the remaining medication while another nurse observes.
Rationale:
A) Return the remaining medication to the facility's pharmacy: Return the remaining medication to the facility's pharmacy: This is not typical practice for partial doses of controlled substances like hydromorphone. The pharmacy usually does not accept leftover portions of such medications.
B) Dispose of the remaining medication while another nurse observes: This is the correct and appropriate action. When administering controlled substances, any unused portion must be properly disposed of to prevent misuse or diversion. Having another nurse observe and document the disposal ensures accountability and adherence to safety protocols.
C) Store the remaining half of the pill in the automated medication dispensing system: Storing a partial tablet of a controlled substance is not appropriate. The automated medication dispensing system is designed to store and dispense whole doses of medication as prescribed. Storing partial tablets can lead to confusion, contamination, and potential misuse. It also increases the risk of medication errors, as the partial dose may not be easily identifiable or accurately accounted for.
D) Place the remaining half of the pill in the unit-dose package: his practice is not acceptable for controlled substances due to the risk of misuse, contamination, and the potential for medication errors. Controlled substances require strict handling and disposal procedures to ensure safety and compliance with regulatory standards. Placing a partial tablet back into the unit-dose package does not align with these standards and could lead to inappropriate use or administration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Hematuria: Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is not typically associated with an allergic reaction to cefaclor. Allergic reactions usually manifest with symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Hematuria is more likely indicative of a urinary tract infection, kidney stones, or another non-allergic issue.
B) Pruritus: Pruritus, or itching, is a common symptom of an allergic reaction to medications like cefaclor. Itching can occur on the skin or mucous membranes and may be accompanied by other allergic symptoms such as rash, hives, or swelling. Therefore, the presence of pruritus should raise suspicion for a potential allergic reaction to cefaclor.
C) Slurred speech: Slurred speech is not a typical manifestation of an allergic reaction to cefaclor. It is more commonly associated with neurological conditions, intoxication, stroke, or side effects of certain medications, rather than an allergic response to antibiotics.
D) Tremor: Tremor, or involuntary shaking, is not a characteristic sign of an allergic reaction to cefaclor. Tremors can have various causes, including neurological disorders, medication side effects, or metabolic abnormalities. While tremors can occur in severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), they are not among the primary symptoms.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Give diphenhydramine IM: Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that can help alleviate allergic symptoms such as itching, hives, and mild allergic reactions. However, in the case of an anaphylactic reaction, which is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction, diphenhydramine alone may not be sufficient. While it can be administered as an adjunctive therapy, it is not the primary intervention for anaphylaxis. Therefore, giving diphenhydramine IM should not be the next action after stopping the medication infusion.
B) Elevate the client's legs and feet: Elevating the client's legs and feet is a supportive measure that can help improve venous return to the heart and mitigate symptoms of hypotension. However, in the context of an anaphylactic reaction, the priority is to address airway compromise and cardiovascular collapse, as these are life-threatening complications. Elevating the legs and feet may be considered after administering epinephrine and ensuring stabilization of the client's airway, breathing, and circulation.
C) Replace the infusion with 0.9% sodium chloride: While stopping the infusion of the offending medication is essential in managing an anaphylactic reaction, replacing it with 0.9% sodium chloride solution alone does not address the systemic effects of anaphylaxis. The priority is to administer medications such as epinephrine to reverse the allergic response and stabilize the client's condition. Therefore, replacing the infusion with 0.9% sodium chloride should not be the next action after stopping the medication infusion.
D) Administer epinephrine IM: Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis due to its rapid onset of action and ability to reverse bronchoconstriction, vasodilation, and increased vascular permeability associated with the allergic reaction. Administering epinephrine IM helps counteract the severe manifestations of anaphylaxis, including respiratory distress and hypotension. Therefore, it is the most appropriate next action after stopping the medication infusion and assessing the client's respiratory status.
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