A nurse is providing medication teaching about disulfiram for a client who has alcohol use disorder. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
"I should avoid over-the-counter medications that contain alcohol."
"I will need to get a monthly injection of this medication."
"My provider wants me to take this medication for 2 weeks before I try to quit drinking."
"I will plan to continue taking this medication for at least 5 years."
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. "I should avoid over-the-counter medications that contain alcohol.": Disulfiram causes an unpleasant reaction when alcohol is consumed, even in small amounts. Clients must avoid alcohol-containing products such as certain cough syrups, mouthwashes, and topical solutions to prevent serious adverse effects like flushing, nausea, and hypotension.
B. "I will need to get a monthly injection of this medication.": Disulfiram is an oral medication taken daily, not administered via monthly injection. The injectable form is associated with other medications used in substance use disorder treatment, such as naltrexone.
C. "My provider wants me to take this medication for 2 weeks before I try to quit drinking.": Disulfiram is intended for clients who have already stopped drinking. It is not used to initiate abstinence but to maintain it by discouraging alcohol use through aversive effects.
D. "I will plan to continue taking this medication for at least 5 years.": The duration of disulfiram therapy varies based on the client’s progress and treatment plan. Long-term use beyond 1–2 years is uncommon and typically guided by continued risk of relapse and provider judgment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "I should take this medication on an empty stomach.": Amitriptyline does not require administration on an empty stomach. It can be taken with or without food, although taking it with food may help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.
B. "I can continue to take St. John's wort while taking this medication.": St. John's wort can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome and reduce the effectiveness of amitriptyline due to drug interactions. Clients should avoid combining herbal supplements with antidepressants.
C. "I know it will be a couple of weeks before the medication helps me feel better.": Tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline take 2 to 4 weeks to show noticeable improvement in mood. Recognizing the delayed onset helps set realistic expectations and supports adherence.
D. "I expect this medication to raise my blood pressure.": Amitriptyline more commonly causes orthostatic hypotension, especially when therapy is initiated. Clients should be taught to change positions slowly to reduce the risk of dizziness and falls.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Cheyne-Stokes respirations: This irregular breathing pattern is common in clients nearing end of life due to neurologic decline. It is not a direct indicator of pain and does not necessarily require pain medication unless associated with distress.
B. Restlessness: Restlessness in a palliative care client often signals unrelieved pain, discomfort, or anxiety. It is a nonverbal cue frequently observed in clients unable to communicate pain and should prompt consideration of analgesia.
C. Mottled skin: Mottling is a sign of reduced perfusion and impending death. It reflects circulatory changes but does not directly indicate pain or warrant pain medication unless accompanied by other signs of distress.
D. Constricted pupils: Pupil constriction may result from certain medications (e.g., opioids) or brainstem pressure but is not a reliable sign of pain. It does not, by itself, indicate a need for analgesic intervention.
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