A nurse is reviewing the medication regimen of a 65-year-old patient with multiple comorbidities. The patient's current medications include:
- Metoprolol 50 mg PO BID for Hypertension
- Triazolam 0.25 mg PO at Bedtime for Insomnia
- Sertraline 50 mg PO q24hr for Depression
- Oxycodone 5 mg PO q6hr PRN for Pain
Which of the following statements about this medication regimen are correct? (Select All that Apply.)
Beta-blockers like metoprolol can mask the signs of hypoglycemia
It is safe to take additional doses of Sertraline if the patient feels like their symptoms are worsening
The patient should be monitored for orthostatic hypotension
Oxycodone can be used long-term without risk of physical dependence
The combination of triazolam and oxycodone increases the risk of respiratory depression
Correct Answer : A,C,E
A. Beta-blockers like metoprolol can mask the signs of hypoglycemia: Metoprolol can blunt adrenergic symptoms such as tachycardia and tremors, which are key warning signs of hypoglycemia. This is especially concerning in diabetic patients who rely on these symptoms for early detection of low blood glucose.
B. It is safe to take additional doses of Sertraline if the patient feels like their symptoms are worsening: Sertraline, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), must be taken exactly as prescribed. Taking extra doses increases the risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be life-threatening and requires medical supervision for dosage adjustments.
C. The patient should be monitored for orthostatic hypotension: Older adults taking medications like metoprolol and triazolam are at increased risk for orthostatic hypotension due to vasodilation and CNS depression. Monitoring helps prevent falls and syncope, especially when changing positions.
D. Oxycodone can be used long-term without risk of physical dependence: Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic and carries a high risk of tolerance, physical dependence, and addiction when used long-term. Even when used appropriately, patients can develop dependence, necessitating careful monitoring.
E. The combination of triazolam and oxycodone increases the risk of respiratory depression: Both drugs are CNS depressants, and their combination can have a synergistic effect on respiratory centers in the brain. This raises the risk of severe respiratory depression, particularly in older adults or those with underlying respiratory conditions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Cardiotoxicity: While NSAIDs can contribute to cardiovascular risks such as hypertension and fluid retention, nephrotoxicity is the more direct explanation for the elevated kidney function tests and potassium level. Cardiotoxicity typically presents with symptoms like heart failure or arrhythmias rather than kidney-related lab abnormalities.
B. Nephrotoxicity: NSAIDs inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, which plays a key role in maintaining renal blood flow, especially in older adults or those with preexisting renal impairment. Chronic NSAID use can reduce glomerular filtration, leading to elevated creatinine, hyperkalemia, and worsening blood pressure control, all of which are evident in this patient.
C. Neurotoxicity: Neurotoxic effects are not commonly associated with NSAID use. Symptoms of neurotoxicity include confusion or seizures, which are not relevant to the clinical findings in this scenario.
D. Hepatotoxicity: NSAID-induced liver injury is rare and would typically present with elevated liver enzymes (AST, ALT), not elevated creatinine or potassium. The current lab findings and blood pressure changes are more consistent with kidney involvement.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Triptans should be administered only after other pain medications have been tried: Triptans are first-line agents for moderate to severe migraines and do not require prior use of other analgesics. Delaying their use can reduce effectiveness and prolong the migraine episode.
B. Triptans should be administered at the onset of aura symptoms: Triptans are not recommended during the aura phase, especially for patients with migraines that involve motor or sensory auras, due to concerns about vasoconstrictive effects before pain begins. They are intended for use when headache pain starts.
C. Triptans are most effective when taken early in the migraine attack, at the onset of pain: Triptans work by stimulating serotonin receptors, causing cranial vasoconstriction and reducing neurogenic inflammation. They are most effective when taken as soon as the headache phase begins, not during aura or late in the attack.
D. Triptans can be safely administered every hour until pain relief is achieved: Triptans have strict dosing intervals due to their vasoconstrictive properties, and exceeding recommended doses can lead to cardiovascular complications. They should not be taken more frequently than prescribed.
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