A nurse understands that an anticholinergic drug will produce which of the following effects?

Choice A reason: Dextromethorphan (Robitussin) is not the correct medication for a patient with a productive cough. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that works by acting on the brain to reduce the cough reflex. Dextromethorphan is used for a dry, nonproductive cough that is caused by irritation or inflammation. Dextromethorphan is not effective for a productive cough that produces mucus, and it may even be harmful by preventing the clearance of secretions from the lungs.

Choice B reason: Fluticasone (Flonase) is not the correct medication for a patient with a productive cough. Fluticasone is a corticosteroid that works by reducing inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages. Fluticasone is used for allergic rhinitis, which is a condition that causes sneezing, itching, and runny nose due to an allergic reaction. Fluticasone is not effective for a productive cough that produces mucus, and it may even worsen it by suppressing the immune system and increasing the risk of infection.

Choice C reason: Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) is not the correct medication for a patient with a productive cough. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that works by constricting the blood vessels in the nasal passages and sinuses. Pseudoephedrine is used for nasal congestion, which is a condition that causes stuffy nose and difficulty breathing due to swelling of the mucous membranes. Pseudoephedrine is not effective for a productive cough that produces mucus, and it may even cause side effects such as increased blood pressure, insomnia, and anxiety.

Choice D reason: Guaifenesin (Mucinex) is the correct medication for a patient with a productive cough. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that works by thinning and loosening the mucus in the chest and throat. Guaifenesin is used for a productive cough that produces mucus, as it helps the cough to be more effective and clear the airways. Guaifenesin is generally safe and well tolerated, but it may cause some minor side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and headache.

Choice A reason: This is correct. Hypertension is a contraindication for taking pseudoephedrine. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that shrinks the blood vessels in the nasal passages and relieves congestion. However, it can also increase the blood pressure and the heart rate, which can worsen hypertension and increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, or kidney damage. The nurse should advise the client to avoid pseudoephedrine and use other methods to relieve sinus congestion, such as saline nasal spray, steam inhalation, or humidifier.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Diverticulitis is not a contraindication for taking pseudoephedrine. Diverticulitis is a condition where small pouches in the colon become inflamed and infected. It can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, nausea, or constipation. Pseudoephedrine does not affect the colon or the inflammation directly, but it can cause dehydration, which can worsen constipation and diverticulitis. The nurse should advise the client to drink plenty of fluids and eat a highfiber diet to prevent constipation and diverticulitis.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Migraines are not a contraindication for taking pseudoephedrine. Migraines are severe headaches that are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light and sound. They can be triggered by various factors, such as stress, hormones, or food. Pseudoephedrine does not cause migraines directly, but it can interact with some migraine medications, such as triptans, which are used to treat acute migraine attacks. The combination of pseudoephedrine and triptans can increase the blood pressure and the risk of serotonin syndrome, a serious condition that causes agitation, confusion, tremors, or seizures. The nurse should advise the client to check with their doctor before taking pseudoephedrine and triptans together.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect. Eczema is not a contraindication for taking pseudoephedrine. Eczema is a skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It can be caused by various factors, such as allergies, irritants, or genetics. Pseudoephedrine does not affect the skin or the inflammation directly, but it can cause dryness of the mucous membranes, such as the mouth, nose, or eyes. The nurse should advise the client to use a moisturizer, a lip balm, and artificial tears to prevent dryness and irritation of the skin and the mucous membranes.