A nurse is administering codeine cough syrup to a patient for a dry cough. This medication is a Schedule V medication. Which of the following measures should the nurse take?
Monitor the patient for addiction
Advise the patient that the medication helps to thin out their secretions
Advise the patient to minimize intake of beets
Advise the patient that constipation is an adverse effect of the medication
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Monitor the patient for addiction is not a necessary measure for the nurse to take when administering codeine cough syrup, which is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the brain¹. Codeine is a Schedule V medication, which means that it has a low potential for abuse and dependence compared to other opioids. The nurse should follow the prescriber's order and the label instructions and use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. The nurse should also assess the patient's pain level, respiratory status, and cough frequency and severity.
Choice B reason: Advise the patient that the medication helps to thin out their secretions is an incorrect statement for the nurse to make when administering codeine cough syrup, which is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the brain¹. Codeine does not affect the viscosity or production of the mucus in the airways, but rather reduces the urge to cough. The nurse should advise the patient to drink plenty of fluids, use a humidifier, or use saline nasal spray to help loosen and clear the secretions.
Choice C reason: Advise the patient to minimize intake of beets is not a relevant measure for the nurse to take when administering codeine cough syrup, which is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the brain¹. Beets are a vegetable that are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and nitrates, which can lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. Beets do not interact with codeine or affect its metabolism or clearance. The nurse should encourage the patient to eat a balanced and nutritious diet, unless they have any dietary restrictions or allergies.
Choice D reason: Advise the patient that constipation is an adverse effect of the medication is the correct and appropriate measure for the nurse to take when administering codeine cough syrup, which is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the brain¹. Codeine can also act on the opioid receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, which can reduce the peristalsis and cause constipation. The nurse should advise the patient to prevent or treat constipation by increasing their fluid and fiber intake, exercising regularly, and using laxatives or stool softeners as needed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Past medical history of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is not a contraindication or a concern for administering Reglan, which is a medication that stimulates the motility of the upper gastrointestinal tract and treats nausea, heartburn, and gastroparesis¹. Reglan does not affect the prostate or urinary function.
Choice B reason: Blood pressure of 132/82 is slightly above the normal range of 120/80, but it is not a cause for concern or a reason to withhold Reglan. Reglan can lower the blood pressure by reducing the fluid volume and preventing sodium retention¹. The nurse should monitor the blood pressure regularly, but does not need to notify the health care provider about this finding.
Choice C reason: Allergy to corn is a concern for administering Reglan, as some formulations of Reglan may contain corn starch as an inactive ingredient. Corn starch can trigger an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to corn, causing symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis. The nurse should check the label of the Reglan product and avoid using it if it contains corn starch. The nurse should also notify the health care provider and the pharmacy about the patient's allergy and request an alternative medication or formulation.
Choice D reason: Past medical history of gout is not a contraindication or a concern for administering Reglan, which is a medication that stimulates the motility of the upper gastrointestinal tract and treats nausea, heartburn, and gastroparesis¹. Reglan does not affect the uric acid levels or the joints.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is correct. Blood pressure is the most important vital sign to monitor after giving sublingual nitroglycerin to a client with chest pain. Nitroglycerin is a medication that dilates the blood vessels and lowers the blood pressure. This can relieve the chest pain caused by angina, which is a condition where the heart muscle does not get enough oxygen due to narrowed or blocked arteries. However, if the blood pressure drops too low, the client may experience dizziness, fainting, or shock. Therefore, the nurse should check the blood pressure before and after giving nitroglycerin and report any significant changes to the doctor.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Blood glucose levels are not directly affected by sublingual nitroglycerin. However, some clients with chest pain may also have diabetes, which is a risk factor for heart disease. Diabetes is a condition where the body cannot regulate the amount of sugar in the blood. High or low blood sugar levels can cause symptoms such as thirst, hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, or confusion. Therefore, the nurse should check the blood glucose levels of clients with diabetes and follow the doctor's orders for managing their blood sugar.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Body temperature is not directly affected by sublingual nitroglycerin. However, some clients with chest pain may also have a fever, which is a sign of infection or inflammation. Fever is a condition where the body's temperature rises above the normal range. Fever can cause symptoms such as sweating, chills, headache, or muscle ache. Therefore, the nurse should check the body temperature of clients with fever and follow the doctor's orders for treating their infection or inflammation.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect. Respiratory rate is not directly affected by sublingual nitroglycerin. However, some clients with chest pain may also have difficulty breathing, which is a sign of heart failure or lung disease. Difficulty breathing is a condition where the client cannot get enough air into or out of the lungs. Difficulty breathing can cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or gasping. Therefore, the nurse should check the respiratory rate of clients with difficulty breathing and follow the doctor's orders for improving their oxygenation.
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