A nurse is caring for a client who has poison ivy and is prescribed diphenhydramine. Which of the following instructions should the nurse give regarding the adverse effect of dry mouth associated with diphenhydramine?
"Administer the medication with food."
"Discontinue the medication and notify your provider.”
"Place a humidifier at your bedside every evening.”
“Chew on sugarless gum or suck on hard, sour candies."
The Correct Answer is D
Dry mouth is a common side effect of diphenhydramine, which is an antihistamine medication commonly used to relieve symptoms of allergies, including itching and rash. Chewing on sugarless gum or sucking on hard, sour candies can help stimulate saliva production and alleviate the discomfort of dry mouth.

A. "Administer the medication with food": While taking diphenhydramine with food may help reduce the risk of stomach upset, it does not directly address the dry mouth side effect.
B. "Discontinue the medication and notify your provider": Discontinuing the medication without consulting the healthcare provider is not recommended unless specifically instructed to do so. Dry mouth is a common side effect of diphenhydramine and can be managed with supportive measures.
C. "Place a humidifier at your bedside every evening": While using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air and potentially alleviate dryness in the environment, it is not a specific instruction for managing dry mouth caused by diphenhydramine.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Acetaminophen is a commonly used over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer. One of the potential adverse reactions to acetaminophen is liver toxicity, which can present with symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, and pale stools. It is important for the client to be aware of these signs and symptoms and report them to their healthcare provider if they occur. Monitoring for jaundice can help identify any potential liver-related complications associated with acetaminophen use.
The other options provided in the question are not typically associated with acetaminophen use:
- Tinnitus: Tinnitus refers to a perception of ringing or buzzing in the ears. It is not a commonly reported adverse reaction to acetaminophen.
- Hyperglycemia: Hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar levels. Acetaminophen does not typically cause hyperglycemia as a side effect.
- Muscle pain: Acetaminophen is used to relieve mild to moderate pain, including muscle pain. It is not an adverse reaction to the medication.

Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
The nurse should make the following responses regarding how albuterol helps the client's breathing:
- The medication will open the airways.
- The medication will prevent wheezing.
Albuterol is a bronchodilator medication commonly used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, leading to the dilation of the bronchial tubes and increased airflow. This mechanism helps open up the airways and prevent or relieve symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
The other options are incorrect because:
The medication will decrease coughing episodes: While albuterol may indirectly reduce coughing episodes by opening up the airways and improving airflow, its primary effect is on bronchodilation rather than directly targeting coughing.
The medication will stimulate the flow of mucus: Albuterol is not known to stimulate mucus flow. Instead, it focuses on bronchodilation to improve airflow in the lungs.
The medication will reduce inflammation: Albuterol is primarily a bronchodilator and does not have a significant anti-inflammatory effect. Other medications, such as corticosteroids, are typically used to address inflammation in respiratory conditions.

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