A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is going to take an expectorant to manage a cough. The nurse should explain that this type of medication treats coughs by which of the following mechanisms?
Stimulates secretions
Suppresses the urge to cough
Reduces inflammation
Dries mucous membranes
The Correct Answer is A
A. Stimulates secretions: Expectorants work by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear out. This mechanism helps to reduce cough by facilitating the removal of mucus.
B. Suppresses the urge to cough: Cough suppressants, or antitussives, work by suppressing the cough reflex, not by stimulating secretions. This choice describes a different type of medication used for dry, unproductive coughs.
C. Reduces inflammation: Anti-inflammatory medications reduce inflammation, but they do not specifically target mucus production or the cough reflex. Expectorants do not primarily work by reducing inflammation.
D. Dries mucous membranes: Drying mucous membranes would typically be the action of antihistamines or decongestants, which are not the primary mechanism of action for expectorants. Expectorants aim to keep mucus hydrated to facilitate its removal.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. bronchi: The bronchi are air passages that conduct air into the lungs. They branch into smaller tubes (bronchioles) but are not involved in the actual gas exchange process.
B. nasal passages: The nasal passages filter, warm, and humidify incoming air. They are involved in air preparation but not in the exchange of gases.
C. alveoli: The alveoli are tiny sacs within the lungs where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged between the air and blood. This is the primary site for gas exchange in the respiratory system.
D. larynx: The larynx, or voice box, is involved in sound production and protecting the airway during swallowing. It is not involved in gas exchange.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. 18-month-old who has had watery stools for 3 days: Young children have a higher risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances due to their smaller body fluid reserves. Prolonged diarrhea can cause significant fluid and electrolyte loss, leading to potential acid-base imbalances.
B. A client who has a gastrostomy tube: While a gastrostomy tube can present risks for infection and nutritional imbalances, it is typically managed to ensure adequate nutrition and fluid intake, making electrolyte imbalances less likely unless complications arise.
C. 70-year-old with constipation: Constipation alone is less likely to cause significant fluid and electrolyte disturbances compared to prolonged diarrhea, although chronic constipation can lead to other complications such as fecal impaction.
D. 27-year-old with a 24-hour history of nausea and vomiting: A short-term episode of nausea and vomiting can lead to temporary fluid and electrolyte imbalances, but it is less severe compared to several days of diarrhea, particularly in a young child.
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