A nurse is providing discharge instructions to a patient prescribed Guaifenesin. Which of the following statements by the patient indicates correct understanding of the medication's use?
"This will make it easier to cough up mucus."
"I should take this medication with other cough suppressants for best results."
"This medication will eliminate my cough within 24 hours."
"I should avoid drinking fluids while taking this medication."
The Correct Answer is A
A. "This will make it easier to cough up mucus.": Guaifenesin is an expectorant that works by thinning respiratory tract secretions, making it easier to mobilize and expel mucus through coughing. It does not suppress the cough reflex but facilitates a more productive cough.
B. "I should take this medication with other cough suppressants for best results.": Combining an expectorant like guaifenesin with a cough suppressant can be counterproductive. Suppressing the cough may prevent the effective clearing of loosened mucus, potentially worsening congestion.
C. "This medication will eliminate my cough within 24 hours.": Guaifenesin does not provide immediate relief and does not "eliminate" coughs. Its effectiveness depends on consistent use, and improvement may take a few days depending on the underlying cause of the cough.
D. "I should avoid drinking fluids while taking this medication.": Adequate fluid intake is essential while taking guaifenesin, as it enhances the medication's mucolytic effects. Dehydration can reduce its effectiveness and make secretions thicker and harder to clear.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Avoid caffeine while taking this medication: Theophylline is a methylxanthine, similar in structure and effect to caffeine. Concurrent use can increase CNS stimulation and risk of side effects such as insomnia, tachycardia, and tremors. Avoiding caffeine helps prevent toxicity and unwanted stimulation.
B. Crush your extended-release tablet and mix it with apple sauce for easier consumption: Extended-release formulations should never be crushed, as this can lead to rapid absorption and potentially toxic drug levels. Theophylline has a narrow therapeutic index, and proper dosing is critical.
C. Take this medication as needed when you are not feeling well: Theophylline is a maintenance medication meant to be taken on a regular schedule. Taking it only as needed undermines its therapeutic effectiveness and can lead to inconsistent symptom control.
D. Consume a high-protein diet: While diet can influence drug metabolism, there is no routine recommendation for a high-protein diet with Theophylline. In fact, sudden dietary changes can alter its metabolism, requiring careful monitoring of serum drug levels.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Tablets: The drug label clearly states "Zoloft (sertraline hydrochloride) tablets," indicating that this formulation is in tablet form. It also mentions "30 Tablets" directly below the dosage strength, confirming the correct formulation.
B. Lozenge: Lozenges are designed to dissolve slowly in the mouth for local effect and are not typically used for systemic antidepressants like sertraline. This formulation is not indicated on the label.
C. Elixir: An elixir is a liquid form of medication containing alcohol, and although sertraline can be made in liquid form, this label specifically refers to tablets, not a liquid preparation.
D. Capsules: Capsules contain medication enclosed in a gelatin shell, often used for extended-release purposes. The label does not mention capsules and explicitly says "tablets," making this option incorrect.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.