A nurse is receiving a telephone prescription for a client and documents it as metformin 500 mg PO BID. Which of the following elements should the nurse identify is missing from the prescription?
Dosage
Route
Medication
Time/frequency
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because the dosage is given in the prescription as 500 mg, which indicates the amount of the drug to be administered.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because the route is given in the prescription as PO, which stands for per os or by mouth, which indicates how the drug is to be administered.
Choice C reason: This is correct because the medication is not given in the prescription, which is the name of the drug to be administered. The nurse should ask the provider to clarify the medication name and spell it out if necessary.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect because the time/frequency is given in the prescription as BID, which stands for bis in die or twice a day, which indicates when and how often the drug is to be administered.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Tachycardia is a possible adverse effect of theophylline, as it is a methylxanthine that stimulates the central nervous system and the cardiac muscle. The nurse should instruct the client to monitor their pulse rate and report any palpitations, chest pain, or irregular heartbeat.

Choice B reason: Drowsiness is not a likely adverse effect of theophylline, as it is a stimulant that increases alertness and energy. The nurse should caution the client to avoid taking the medication close to bedtime, as it may cause insomnia.
Choice C reason: Constipation is not a common adverse effect of theophylline, as it does not affect the gastrointestinal motility or secretion. The nurse should advise the client to maintain a balanced diet, adequate fluid intake, and regular exercise to prevent constipation.
Choice D reason: Oliguria is not a typical adverse effect of theophylline, as it does not impair the renal function or cause fluid retention. The nurse should encourage the client to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration and maintain a normal urine output.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because reporting symptoms that last longer than 2 days is not specific to guaifenesin. This is a general instruction for any patient with a sinus infection, regardless of the medication they are taking.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because reporting clear-colored sputum to the prescriber is not necessary. Clear-colored sputum indicates that the infection is improving and the mucus is thinning. This is a desired effect of guaifenesin, not a problem that needs to be reported.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because guaifenesin does not have sedating effects. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps to break up and expel mucus from the respiratory tract. It does not cause drowsiness or impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Choice D reason: This is correct because increasing fluid intake is an important instruction for a patient taking guaifenesin. Fluids help to hydrate the body and thin the mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear the sinuses. Fluids also help to prevent dehydration and dryness of the mucous membranes.
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