A nurse is preparing to administer acetylcysteine (Mucomyst) to a client with excessive respiratory secretions. Which of the following statements are correct regarding acetylcysteine (Mucomyst) (Select All that Apply.)
alternative usage includes being the reversal agent for acetaminophen overdoses.
This medication should not be used for clients with productive coughs.
This medication has a foul smell resembling "rotten eggs"
This medication can be utilized in client's with cystic fibrosis. This medication falls under the classification of "mucoyltic".
Correct Answer : A,C
A) Alternative usage includes being the reversal agent for acetaminophen overdoses: Acetylcysteine is indeed used as an antidote for acetaminophen toxicity. It helps replenish glutathione levels in the liver, thus protecting it from damage caused by the overdose. This is a well-established use of the medication.
B) This medication should not be used for clients with productive coughs: This statement is not correct. Acetylcysteine is used to help thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to expel from the lungs. It can be beneficial for clients with productive coughs, as it aids in reducing excessive respiratory secretions.
C) This medication has a foul smell resembling "rotten eggs": Acetylcysteine has a characteristic odor that is often described as similar to rotten eggs due to the presence of sulfur in its chemical structure. This can be an important consideration for patients when administering the medication.
D) This medication can be utilized in clients with cystic fibrosis. This medication falls under the classification of "mucolytic": Acetylcysteine is classified as a mucolytic agent, making it useful for patients with conditions like cystic fibrosis, where thick mucus production is a significant issue. It helps to decrease the viscosity of secretions, facilitating easier clearance.
E) This medication has anticholinergic properties and side effects: This statement is incorrect. Acetylcysteine does not possess anticholinergic properties. Anticholinergic medications typically reduce secretions and are used for different indications, whereas acetylcysteine serves to increase mucus clearance, not decrease it.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Use this inhaler 15 minutes prior to physical activity: This is the correct recommendation for cromolyn. It is a mast cell stabilizer that helps prevent asthma symptoms by inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators. Using it before physical activity can help minimize exercise-induced bronchospasm.
B. Tachycardia is an adverse effect associated with this medication: This statement is misleading. Cromolyn is not typically associated with tachycardia as an adverse effect. Unlike bronchodilators, which can cause increased heart rate, cromolyn primarily works to stabilize mast cells and has a different side effect profile.
C. This medication should not be discontinued abruptly: While it is generally good practice to consult a healthcare provider before stopping any asthma medication, cromolyn does not have a significant risk of withdrawal symptoms like corticosteroids might. It is more important to maintain regular use for effectiveness rather than fear abrupt discontinuation.
D. Injections are required weekly to properly prevent asthma attacks: This statement is incorrect. Cromolyn is administered via inhalation, not by injection, and does not require weekly injections. Patients should use the inhaler as prescribed, typically several times a day, depending on their individual treatment plan.
Correct Answer is ["A","C"]
Explanation
A) Decongestants: These medications are primarily used to relieve nasal congestion associated with upper respiratory conditions such as allergic rhinitis and the common cold. They work by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages, thereby reducing swelling and congestion. Common examples include pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine.
B) H2 Antagonist: H2 antagonists are primarily used to reduce gastric acid secretion and treat conditions such as peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). They are not indicated for upper respiratory conditions, so this option does not apply.
C) H1 Antagonist: H1 antagonists, or antihistamines, are used to alleviate symptoms of allergies, hay fever, and other upper respiratory conditions by blocking the effects of histamine. This class includes both first-generation antihistamines (like diphenhydramine) and second-generation antihistamines (like cetirizine), making them relevant for upper respiratory issues.
D) Long-Acting Beta Agonist (LABA): LABAs are primarily used for the management of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), targeting the lower respiratory tract. They are not typically used for upper respiratory conditions, so this option does not apply.
E) Short Acting Beta Agonist (SABA): SABAs, such as albuterol, are primarily used for acute asthma attacks and bronchospasm in conditions like COPD. They act on the lower respiratory tract and are not indicated for upper respiratory conditions.
F) Mast Cell Stabilizers: These medications are used to prevent allergic reactions and asthma symptoms by stabilizing mast cells and preventing the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators. While they may have a role in allergic rhinitis, they are not the primary treatment for upper respiratory tract conditions, making this option less applicable compared to decongestants and H1 antagonists.
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