A nurse is educating a patient with osteoporosis who has been prescribed alendronate 70 mg PO weekly (Fosamax). Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further instruction?
“I take my other medications at least 30 minutes after my alendronate.”.
“I take my alendronate on the same day every week with an 8-ounce glass of milk.”.
“I sit up and read the morning paper after taking my alendronate.”.
“I will need to have a bone density test occasionally while taking this medication.”.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Alendronate should be taken at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage, or medication of the day with plain water only. This is because other beverages (including mineral water), food, and some medications are likely to reduce the absorption of alendronate.
Choice B rationale
Alendronate should not be taken with milk. This is because the calcium in the milk can bind to the alendronate, preventing it from being absorbed into the body and therefore making it less effective. This is why the patient’s statement indicates a need for further instruction.
Choice C rationale
After taking alendronate, the patient should not lie down and should remain fully upright (sitting, standing, or walking) for at least 30 minutes. This is to help alendronate reach the stomach more quickly and also to reduce the risk of irritation to the esophagus. Therefore, sitting up and reading the morning paper after taking alendronate is a correct practice.
Choice D rationale
Regular bone density tests are necessary while taking alendronate. This is to monitor the drug’s effectiveness in increasing bone mass and to adjust the treatment plan as necessary. Therefore, the patient’s statement is correct.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While pain management is important in burn care, the first action should be to stop the burning process. Administering IV morphine does not achieve this.
Choice B rationale
Applying ice to a burn can cause vasoconstriction and may increase tissue damage. It is not the first action to stop the burning process.
Choice C rationale
Applying a neutralizing agent is not the first action in chemical burn management. The priority is to remove the chemical from contact with the skin.
Choice D rationale
Removing the patient’s clothing is the first action in burn management. This prevents further contact of the chemical with the skin and stops the burning process.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A DNR prescription does not mean that the patient will only receive pain medication for their treatments. A DNR order simply means that if the patient’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing, medical staff will not attempt resuscitation3.
Choice B rationale
A DNR prescription does not necessarily limit a patient’s current treatment regimen. It only specifies that CPR will not be performed in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. Other treatments can still be provided based on the patient’s wishes and the medical team’s recommendations3.
Choice C rationale
A DNR prescription allows a patient to continue with their current treatment regimen. The DNR order only comes into effect if the patient’s heart stops or they stop breathing3.
Choice D rationale
While a DNR prescription may limit the ability to receive invasive procedures in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest, it does not limit other forms of treatment. The patient can still receive treatments that align with their goals of care3.
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