A nurse provides teaching for a patient who is newly diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the drug therapy for this disease?
"A levodopa/carbidopa combination is used to improve motor function."
"I should see improvement in my symptoms in about a week."
"With adequate drug therapy, the disease progression may be slowed."
"After a couple of months of treatment, my dose will be reduced."
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: The levodopa/carbidopa combination is commonly used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Levodopa is a precursor to dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is deficient in the brains of people with Parkinson's disease. Carbidopa helps prevent the breakdown of levodopa before it reaches the brain, increasing its effectiveness. This combination is widely recognized as an effective treatment for improving motor function in Parkinson's patients. Understanding this combination therapy indicates that the patient is aware of the primary approach to managing their condition.
Choice B reason: While some patients may begin to see improvements in their symptoms within a few days to a week of starting levodopa/carbidopa therapy, it is not guaranteed for all patients. The response to the medication can vary, and some individuals may take longer to notice significant improvements. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations and understand that the treatment response can be individualized.
Choice C reason: While drug therapy can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life in Parkinson's disease, it does not significantly slow the progression of the disease. Parkinson's is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, and current medications primarily aim to alleviate symptoms rather than alter the course of the disease. Thus, this statement indicates a misunderstanding of the primary purpose of the medication.
Choice D reason: The dosing of Parkinson's medications, including levodopa/carbidopa, is typically adjusted based on the patient's response and symptom control. It is not standard practice to reduce the dose after a couple of months automatically. In fact, over time, some patients may require higher doses or additional medications to maintain symptom control. Therefore, this statement reflects a misunderstanding of the typical management of Parkinson's disease.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Hepatitis B is a viral infection that is commonly transmitted through sexual contact, as well as through exposure to infected blood or body fluids. It is highly infectious and can be spread through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. Hepatitis B can cause both acute and chronic liver disease, and vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection.
Choice B reason: Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through direct blood-to-blood contact. While it is less commonly spread through sexual contact compared to Hepatitis B, it is possible, particularly among individuals with multiple sexual partners or those who engage in high-risk sexual behaviors. Hepatitis C often becomes chronic, leading to serious liver damage over time. There is no vaccine for Hepatitis C, but antiviral medications can effectively cure the infection in most cases.
Choice C reason: Hepatitis E is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, usually by consuming contaminated water or food. It is not commonly transmitted sexually. Hepatitis E is more prevalent in regions with poor sanitation, and it typically causes acute liver disease, which generally resolves on its own in most healthy individuals. Prevention includes good sanitation practices and proper hand hygiene.
Choice D reason: Hepatitis A is also transmitted through the fecal-oral route, primarily by ingesting contaminated food or water. It is not typically associated with sexual transmission. Hepatitis A causes acute liver disease, which usually resolves without long-term liver damage. Vaccination is available and effective in preventing Hepatitis A infection.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Abdominal pain and rectal bleeding are not the primary signs of a bowel obstruction. Rectal bleeding could be indicative of other gastrointestinal issues such as hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, or colorectal cancer. While abdominal pain is a symptom of bowel obstruction, rectal bleeding is not typically associated with it.
Choice B reason: The primary symptoms of bowel obstruction include abdominal distention, pain, inability to have a bowel movement, and nausea/vomiting. When a bowel obstruction occurs, the normal movement of intestinal contents is blocked, leading to a buildup of contents and gas. This results in abdominal distention and pain. The blockage also prevents the passage of stool and gas, causing constipation or inability to have a bowel movement. Nausea and vomiting are common as the digestive system tries to expel the contents that cannot pass through the obstruction.
Choice C reason: Dehydration, back pain, and fever are not the hallmark symptoms of bowel obstruction. While dehydration can occur due to vomiting and reduced intake, back pain is not commonly associated with bowel obstruction. Fever may indicate an infection or other complications but is not a primary symptom of bowel obstruction.
Choice D reason: Diarrhea and excessive thirst are not typical signs of bowel obstruction. In fact, bowel obstruction usually leads to constipation or the inability to pass stool rather than diarrhea. Excessive thirst could be a sign of dehydration but is not specific to bowel obstruction.
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