A nurse is caring for a patient who has been prescribed fentanyl patches for chronic cancer pain management at home. Which statement by the patient indicates that he understands how to use this medication safely?
“I will change the patch every other day.”
“I will apply the patch to a hairy area for better adhesion.”
“I will remove the old patch before applying a new one.”
“I will cut the patch in half if I need a lower dose.”.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is choice C. The patient should remove the old patch before applying a new one to avoid overdose and adverse effects of fentanyl. Fentanyl patches are designed to deliver a constant amount of opioid analgesic over a period of time, usually 72 hours.
Therefore, changing the patch every other day (choice A) would result in inadequate pain relief and withdrawal symptoms.
Applying the patch to a hairy area (choice B) would interfere with the absorption of the drug and reduce its effectiveness.
Cutting the patch in half (choice D) would damage the integrity of the patch and cause erratic or rapid release of the drug, which could be fatal. Fentanyl patches should be applied to a clean, dry, hairless area of intact skin on the upper torso or upper arm.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is choiceA,B , andD.
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can cause gastric irritation and bleeding.Therefore, the nurse should instruct the client to take ibuprofen with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers.The nurse should also advise the client to avoid alcohol while taking ibuprofen, as alcohol can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and liver damage.Additionally, the nurse should tell the client to report any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, such as black or tarry stools, abdominal pain, or vomiting blood, to the healthcare provider immediately.
ChoiceCis wrong because taking ibuprofen on an empty stomach can increase the risk of gastric irritation and bleeding.
ChoiceEis wrong because taking ibuprofen with antacids can reduce the effectiveness of ibuprofen and interfere with its absorption.Antacids can also cause adverse effects such as diarrhea, constipation, or electrolyte imbalance.
Therefore, the nurse should not recommend taking ibuprofen with antacids.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Assess the patient’s leg for circulation, sensation, and movement.
This is because the patient’s symptoms of pain, tingling, and numbness in his left leg could indicate a potential complication of impaired blood flow or nerve damage after surgery.The nurse should prioritize assessing the patient’s leg for any signs of compromised circulation, sensation, or movement before administering any pain medication.
Choice A is wrong because administering morphine sulfate 2 mg IV bolus without assessing the patient’s leg could mask the symptoms of a serious problem and delay appropriate interventions.Morphine sulfate is a potent opioid analgesic that can cause respiratory depression, sedation, and constipation.
Choice B is wrong because administering ibuprofen 400 mg PO without assessing the patient’s leg could also mask the symptoms of a serious problem and delay appropriate interventions.Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, and increased risk of cardiovascular events.
Choice D is wrong because reassessing the patient’s pain in 15 minutes without assessing the patient’s leg could result in the worsening of the patient’s condition and increased risk of complications.The nurse should not delay assessing the patient’s leg for any signs of impaired circulation, sensation, or movement.
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