A nurse is instructing a patient receiving a cholesterol-lowering agent. Which information should the nurse include in the patient education?

Stop taking the medication if you experience constipation.

You should continue your exercise program to increase your HDL serum levels.

This medication will replace other interventions you have been trying.

It is important for you to double your dose if you miss one to maintain therapeutic blood levels.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason:
Telling the patient to stop taking the medication if they experience constipation is not appropriate. While side effects should be reported to the healthcare provider, discontinuing the medication without professional guidance can lead to inadequate management of cholesterol levels. The nurse should advise the patient to consult their provider about any side effects.

Choice B reason:
Continuing an exercise program to increase HDL serum levels is important advice. Regular physical activity is beneficial in raising HDL (good cholesterol) levels, which help reduce the risk of heart disease. Exercise complements the effects of cholesterol-lowering medications and supports overall cardiovascular health.

Choice C reason:
Stating that the medication will replace other interventions is incorrect. Cholesterol-lowering medications should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and weight management. These interventions work synergistically to improve lipid profiles and reduce cardiovascular risk.

Choice D reason:
Doubling the dose if a dose is missed is unsafe and not recommended. Patients should follow their prescribed dosing schedule and consult their healthcare provider for instructions if they miss a dose. Taking an extra dose can increase the risk of adverse effects and complications.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason:
In patients with chronic renal failure, the kidneys cannot effectively excrete magnesium, leading to the risk of hypermagnesemia. Magnesium hydroxide, commonly used as an antacid and laxative, should be used with caution or avoided in these patients to prevent magnesium accumulation in the blood, which can have serious cardiovascular and neuromuscular effects.

Choice B reason:
While cirrhosis affects liver function and can alter drug metabolism, magnesium hydroxide does not have a direct contraindication for use in patients with cirrhosis. However, caution is necessary due to potential electrolyte imbalances and altered pharmacokinetics. The primary concern with magnesium hydroxide in these patients is less critical compared to those with renal failure.

Choice C reason:
Hemorrhoids do not directly contraindicate the use of magnesium hydroxide. This condition primarily affects the veins around the rectum and anus and is unrelated to the systemic effects of magnesium. Therefore, the presence of hemorrhoids does not necessitate withholding the medication.

Choice D reason:
Undiagnosed abdominal pain is a significant consideration before administering magnesium hydroxide. The use of laxatives can exacerbate conditions like intestinal obstruction or acute abdomen. Therefore, caution is advised, but the immediate and more critical concern remains the risk posed to patients with chronic renal failure.

A. Take the antacid 1 hour after the ranitidine. B. The antacid and ranitidine should be taken at the same time for better effect. C. Take both medications at the same time before meals. D. Patient can't take both of these medications and needs to be on one of these medications only.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason:
Taking an antacid one hour after ranitidine is recommended because antacids can affect the absorption of H2 receptor blockers like ranitidine. Ranitidine works by reducing stomach acid production, whereas antacids neutralize existing acid. Taking the antacid too close to the ranitidine can reduce the effectiveness of the ranitidine by altering the stomach's pH balance and affecting its absorption.

Choice B reason:
Taking an antacid and ranitidine at the same time does not enhance their effect. In fact, this can interfere with the absorption and effectiveness of ranitidine. Antacids can increase the pH of the stomach, which may reduce the absorption of ranitidine, thus diminishing its acid-reducing effects.

Choice C reason:
Taking both medications at the same time before meals is not advisable for the same reason as above. The simultaneous administration can reduce the effectiveness of ranitidine, as the increased pH caused by the antacid can interfere with the absorption of the H2 receptor blocker, thereby not providing the intended therapeutic effect.

Choice D reason:
The patient can take both medications, but they should be timed correctly to ensure optimal effectiveness. Saying that the patient needs to be on one medication only is incorrect. Both medications can be used together, but the antacid should be taken after ranitidine to avoid any interaction that might impair the effectiveness of ranitidine.

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A nurse is instructing a patient receiving a cholesterol-lowering agent. Which information should the nurse include in the patient education?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Which condition(s) would cause the nurse to hold a PRN order for magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia)?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The nurse is providing education to a patient who has been prescribed both an antacid and ranitidine (an H2 receptor blocker). Which instruction should the nurse give the patient about taking the medications?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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