A nurse is teaching a client who has been prescribed hydroxyzine (Vistaril) for anxiety and pruritus due to an allergic reaction. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
“Avoid driving or operating machinery while taking this medication.”
“Take this medication on an empty stomach to increase absorption.”
“Drink plenty of fluids and suck on hard candy to prevent dry mouth.”
“Report any signs of urinary retention or difficulty urinating.”
The Correct Answer is A
Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) is an antihistamine that can cause drowsiness and sedation as side effects. Therefore, the client should avoid activities that require alertness and coordination while taking this medication.
Choice B is wrong because hydroxyzine can be taken with or without food. Taking it on an empty stomach does not increase absorption.
Choice C is wrong because hydroxyzine can cause dry mouth as a side effect, but the client does not need to drink plenty of fluids or suck on hard candy to prevent it. These measures may help relieve the discomfort of dry mouth, but they are not necessary instructions for taking hydroxyzine.
Choice D is wrong because hydroxyzine does not cause urinary retention or difficulty urinating as side effects. These are signs of anticholinergic toxicity, which can occur with other medications such as tricyclic antidepressants or antipsychotics.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is because SSRIs can cause increased anxiety in some patients during the first few weeks of treatment, but this usually subsides as the medication takes effect.Discontinuing the medication abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms and worsen the depression.Increasing the dose of the medication is not advisable without consulting the prescriber, as it may increase the risk of adverse effects and serotonin syndrome.Administering an anxiolytic medication may interact with the SSRI and cause excessive sedation or respiratory depression.
Choice A is wrong because discontinuing the medication immediately can cause withdrawal symptoms and worsen the depression.
Choice B is wrong because increasing the dose of the medication is not advisable without consulting the prescriber, as it may increase the risk of adverse effects and serotonin syndrome.
Choice D is wrong because administering an anxiolytic medication may interact with the SSRI and cause excessive sedation or respiratory depression.
Normal ranges for SSRIs vary depending on the specific drug, but generally they are between 20 and 200 ng/mL.The therapeutic effects of SSRIs usually take 3 to 6 weeks to appear.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
According to web search results, carbamazepine (Tegretol) can cause a serious skin reaction called Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which requires immediate medical attention.A rash is an early sign of this condition and should be reported to the health care provider as soon as possible.
Choice A is wrong because drowsiness is a common side effect of carbamazepine (Tegretol) and does not indicate a serious problem.However, the client should be advised to avoid driving or operating machinery until the drowsiness subsides.
Choice B is wrong because nausea and vomiting are also common side effects of carbamazepine (Tegretol) and can be minimized by taking the medication with food or milk.The client should be instructed to drink plenty of fluids and report any signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.
Choice D is wrong because dry mouth is another common side effect of carbamazepine (Tegretol) and can be relieved by sucking on sugarless candy or ice chips, chewing sugarless gum, or using saliva substitutes.The client should also maintain good oral hygiene and have regular dental check-ups to prevent dental problems.
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