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 A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Furosemide is a diuretic, or water pill, that helps your body get rid of extra salt and water. It can cause you to lose too much potassium, a mineral that helps your nerves, muscles, and organs work normally. So, it’s important to eat foods that are high in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, tomatoes, beans, and spinach.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Contractures, or the shortening and hardening of muscles, tendons, or other tissue, can be a complication of burns. However, they are not typically the primary risk for a patient with burns on the head, neck, and chest.
Choice B rationale
While fluid imbalance can occur with any burn due to loss of fluid from the damaged skin, it is not typically the primary risk for a patient with burns on the head, neck, and chest.
Choice C rationale
Airway obstruction is a primary risk for a patient with burns on the head, neck, and chest. Swelling from the burns can lead to obstruction of the airway, making it difficult for the patient to breathe.
Choice D rationale
While infection is a risk with any burn, it is not typically the primary risk for a patient with burns on the head, neck, and chest. The primary risk is airway obstruction due to swelling from the burns.
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