A nurse is teaching the family of a client who has Alzheimer’s disease about donepezil. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
“Syncope episodes may occur when taking this medication.”
“You will need to monitor for constipation.”
“This medication may cause tachycardia.”
“You should administer the medication each morning.”
The Correct Answer is A
Answer: A. “Syncope episodes may occur when taking this medication.”
Rationale:
A) “Syncope episodes may occur when taking this medication.”
Syncope (fainting) is a possible side effect of donepezil, a cholinesterase inhibitor used to treat Alzheimer’s disease. Donepezil can cause bradycardia, which may lead to a decrease in blood pressure and reduced blood flow to the brain, resulting in syncope. It's important for family members to monitor for episodes of dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness, particularly when the client changes positions (orthostatic hypotension).
B) “You will need to monitor for constipation.”
Constipation is not commonly associated with donepezil use. In fact, donepezil may cause diarrhea or gastrointestinal upset due to its cholinergic effects. Family members should be more concerned about potential gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea rather than constipation.
C) “This medication may cause tachycardia.”
Donepezil is more likely to cause bradycardia (a slower-than-normal heart rate) rather than tachycardia (a fast heart rate). Bradycardia is a known side effect because the medication increases acetylcholine, which enhances parasympathetic activity, leading to a slower heart rate.
D) “You should administer the medication each morning.”
Donepezil is typically administered in the evening before bed. This schedule helps reduce the risk of daytime gastrointestinal side effects, like nausea and vomiting, which can interfere with daily activities. Administering the medication at night can also reduce the impact of potential dizziness or syncope during the day.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) "I will weigh myself daily and report significant changes in weight":
This statement demonstrates an understanding of the nurse's teaching about diuretics. Diuretics are medications that promote diuresis, leading to increased urine output and fluid loss. Monitoring weight daily can help the client identify fluid retention or volume overload, which are common concerns in individuals taking diuretics. Significant changes in weight, such as sudden increases, may indicate fluid retention or worsening heart failure and should be reported to the healthcare provider promptly for further evaluation.
B) "If my leg gets swollen again, I'll be sure to take an additional pill":
This statement indicates a misunderstanding of the nurse's teaching. Taking an additional pill without healthcare provider guidance can lead to medication overdose and potential adverse effects. It's important for clients to follow the prescribed dosage regimen and consult their healthcare provider before making any changes to their medication regimen.
C) "I will take my medication before bedtime":
While taking diuretics before bedtime may be appropriate for some individuals, it is not a universal recommendation. The timing of diuretic administration can vary depending on the specific type of diuretic prescribed, the client's individual needs, and the presence of any coexisting conditions. Therefore, this statement does not necessarily indicate an understanding of the nurse's teaching about diuretics.
D) "I will have to limit my high sugar foods":
This statement does not directly relate to the nurse's teaching about diuretics. While dietary modifications may be necessary for certain health conditions, such as diabetes, they are not specifically related to the mechanism of action or management of diuretic therapy. Therefore, this statement does not demonstrate an understanding of the nurse's teaching about diuretics.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for "fight or flight":
This is the correct answer. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the "fight or flight" response, which prepares the body to react to perceived threats or stressors by increasing heart rate, dilating pupils, redistributing blood flow, and releasing stress hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenaline.
B) The sympathetic nervous system helps us to rest and digest:
This statement is incorrect. The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for the "rest and digest" response, which promotes relaxation, digestion, and conservation of energy.
C) The sympathetic nervous system includes the cranial nerves:
This statement is incorrect. The sympathetic nervous system is primarily associated with the thoracolumbar region of the spinal cord and does not include the cranial nerves, which are primarily associated with the parasympathetic nervous system.
D) The sympathetic nervous system can lower blood pressure:
This statement is incorrect. The sympathetic nervous system typically increases blood pressure as part of the "fight or flight" response by increasing heart rate and constricting blood vessels to redirect blood flow to vital organs and muscles.
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