A nurse is teaching a client about taking an expectorant to treat a cough. The nurse should explain that this type of medication has which of the following actions?
Reduces inflammation
Dries mucous membranes
Stimulates secretions
Suppresses the urge to cough
The Correct Answer is C
Expectorants are medications that help to loosen and thin mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier to cough up and expel. They work by increasing the production of respiratory tract secretions, which helps to hydrate and thin the mucus, making it less sticky and easier to clear from the airways. By stimulating the production and secretion of mucus, expectorants promote coughing and facilitate the removal of excess mucus and phlegm from the respiratory system.
It's important to note that expectorants are primarily used for productive coughs (coughs that produce phlegm or mucus). If the cough is dry and non-productive, other types of cough suppressants or remedies may be more appropriate.
Regarding the other options:
Reduces inflammation: Expectorants do not have a direct effect on reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract. Anti-inflammatory medications such as glucocorticoids are typically used for reducing inflammation in conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Dries mucous membranes: Expectorants do not have a drying effect on mucous membranes. In fact, they work to increase the hydration and fluidity of respiratory secretions.
Suppresses the urge to cough: Expectorants do not suppress the urge to cough. They promote coughing by facilitating the clearance of mucus and phlegm from the airways. Cough suppressants, on the other hand, are medications used to relieve a dry, non-productive cough by suppressing the cough reflex.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist commonly used to manage asthma and allergic rhinitis. Its primary therapeutic effect is to improve respiratory symptoms by reducing inflammation and constriction of the airways. Therefore, an increased ease of breathing would be an expected outcome indicating that the medication is working effectively.
The other options are incorrect because:
A. The client's seizure threshold is reduced: Montelukast does not have any effect on the seizure threshold. This outcome is unrelated to the medication and may be indicative of a different condition or treatment.
B. The client experiences less muscle pain: Montelukast is not indicated for reducing muscle pain. This outcome is unrelated to the medication and may be indicative of a different condition or treatment.
D. The client's platelet count is increased: Montelukast does not have an effect on platelet count. This outcome is unrelated to the medication and may be indicative of a different condition or treatment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Dry mouth is a common side effect of diphenhydramine, which is an antihistamine medication commonly used to relieve symptoms of allergies, including itching and rash. Chewing on sugarless gum or sucking on hard, sour candies can help stimulate saliva production and alleviate the discomfort of dry mouth.
A. "Administer the medication with food": While taking diphenhydramine with food may help reduce the risk of stomach upset, it does not directly address the dry mouth side effect.
B. "Discontinue the medication and notify your provider": Discontinuing the medication without consulting the healthcare provider is not recommended unless specifically instructed to do so. Dry mouth is a common side effect of diphenhydramine and can be managed with supportive measures.
C. "Place a humidifier at your bedside every evening": While using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air and potentially alleviate dryness in the environment, it is not a specific instruction for managing dry mouth caused by diphenhydramine.
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