A nurse is caring for a client who has a new prescription for oxycodone. Which of the following medications should the nurse remind the client to take regularly to prevent a common adverse effect of oxycodone?
Lorazepam
Docusate sodium
Gabapentin
Ranitidine
The Correct Answer is B
Management of clients prescribed opioid analgesics such as Oxycodone requires proactive prevention of predictable adverse effects. Opioids commonly reduce gastrointestinal motility by binding to mu-receptors in the intestinal tract, leading to delayed peristalsis and hard stools. Constipation is one of the most frequent and persistent side effects and does not resolve with continued use. Therefore, bowel regimen medications are typically prescribed concurrently to maintain bowel function and prevent complications.
Rationale:
A. Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine used for anxiety, sedation, or seizure control and is not used to prevent opioid-induced constipation. When combined with oxycodone, it can actually increase the risk of respiratory depression and CNS depression. Therefore, it is not appropriate for preventing common opioid adverse effects.
B. Docusate sodium is a stool softener that helps prevent hard, dry stools by increasing water penetration into the stool mass. It is commonly used alongside opioid therapy to counteract decreased intestinal motility and prevent constipation. Regular use is recommended because opioid-induced constipation is predictable and does not resolve spontaneously.
C. Gabapentin is used for neuropathic pain and seizure disorders and has no effect on bowel motility. It does not prevent gastrointestinal side effects associated with opioids. Additionally, it may cause sedation when combined with oxycodone but does not address constipation risk.
D. Ranitidine is an H2-receptor antagonist used to reduce gastric acid secretion and manage conditions like GERD or peptic ulcers. It does not influence intestinal motility or prevent opioid-induced constipation. Therefore, it is not appropriate for managing this common adverse effect.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Postoperative care following cataract surgery focuses on protecting the operative eye, preventing increased intraocular pressure, and promoting proper healing. Clients are taught to avoid activities that place strain on the eye or increase pressure within the surgical site. Nursing discharge teaching includes positioning precautions, eye protection measures, and recognition of complications such as infection or retinal detachment. Proper adherence to these instructions helps preserve vision and prevent surgical complications.
Rationale:
A. Removing the protective eye shield at bedtime is incorrect because the shield is usually worn while sleeping to protect the eye from accidental rubbing or pressure. The operative eye remains vulnerable during the early healing period, and nighttime protection helps prevent injury or disruption of the surgical repair following Cataract surgery.
B. Bending at the waist when picking up objects is contraindicated because this movement increases intraocular pressure. Increased pressure can place stress on the surgical site and increase the risk of hemorrhage or disruption of healing. Clients are instructed to squat or bend at the knees instead of bending forward.
C. Avoiding lying on the operative side is correct because direct pressure on the affected eye can impair healing and increase discomfort or intraocular pressure. Proper positioning helps protect the surgical site and reduces the risk of postoperative complications. Side-lying on the nonoperative side is generally preferred during recovery.
D. A brow headache persisting for several days is not expected and may indicate increased intraocular pressure or another postoperative complication. Clients should report severe eye pain or headache promptly because these findings can suggest complications requiring immediate evaluation. Normal postoperative discomfort is usually mild rather than severe or persistent.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Prevention of musculoskeletal stress injuries focuses on maintaining proper body mechanics during lifting, pushing, and transferring activities. Good body alignment reduces strain on muscles, ligaments, and the spine by ensuring forces are distributed evenly across large muscle groups. Nurses teach clients to avoid twisting movements, maintain a wide base of support, and keep objects close to the body when lifting. These principles help prevent acute strain and long-term back injuries.
Rationale:
A. Facing the object directly and avoiding twisting reflects correct body mechanics principles. Twisting the spine while lifting or moving increases the risk of musculoskeletal injury by placing uneven stress on vertebral structures and surrounding muscles. Proper alignment ensures force is distributed safely, reducing the likelihood of strain injuries.
B. Positioning arms away from the body when pushing an object is incorrect because it increases leverage strain on the shoulders and upper back. Keeping objects and force application close to the body improves stability and reduces muscular effort. Extending the arms increases the risk of injury and fatigue.
C. Positioning legs close together before lifting is unsafe because it reduces the base of support and decreases balance. Proper lifting technique requires a wide stance to enhance stability and distribute body weight evenly. A narrow base increases the risk of falls and back strain.
D. Positioning objects away from the body before lifting them is incorrect because it increases torque on the spine. Objects should be held close to the center of gravity to reduce strain on the back muscles. Keeping loads close minimizes the risk of injury during lifting activities.
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