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A patient has been prescribed intravenous (IV) famotidine.
Which observation would indicate to the practical nurse (PN) that the medication is having the desired effect?

A.

Decreased nighttime awakenings.

B.

Positive stool antigen test.

C.

Loss of 3 pounds (1.36 kg) in a month.

D.

Reduced epigastric pain.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A rationale

Famotidine is a type of medication known as an H2 blocker, which decreases the amount of
acid produced in the stomach. While it can indirectly lead to better sleep by reducing
discomfort, decreased nighttime awakenings is not a direct indicator of its effectiveness.
Choice B rationale
A positive stool antigen test is used to detect the presence of certain bacteria in the
gastrointestinal tract. It is not directly related to the action of famotidine.
Choice C rationale
Weight loss is not a typical result of famotidine use. If a patient experiences significant weight
loss, other causes should be investigated.
Choice D rationale
Famotidine is used to treat conditions like ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and
conditions where the stomach produces too much acid, like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
Reduced epigastric pain indicates that the medication is effectively reducing stomach acid and
therefore, alleviating symptoms.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The correct answer is D. Antidepressant medication can take 2 to 4 weeks to become effective. Choice A rationale While it’s important to review the medication regimen if a patient is not responding to treatment, it’s also crucial to understand that antidepressants like amitriptyline don’t typically show their full effects immediately. It’s common for these medications to take several weeks before their full therapeutic effect becomes apparent. Choice B rationale A dosage increase may be considered if the patient shows no improvement after a sufficient period, typically several weeks. However, since the patient has only been on the medication for five days, it’s too early to consider a dosage increase. Choice C rationale Therapy can indeed be beneficial in treating depression and can enhance the effect of medication. However, the statement that the medication isn’t working after five days is likely due to the fact that antidepressants usually take longer to start showing effects. Choice D rationale This is the correct answer. Antidepressants like amitriptyline often take 2 to 4 weeks to start showing their full effects. It’s important for patients to know this so they don’t get discouraged and stop taking the medication too soon.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Metronidazole is an antibiotic used to treat various infections. Seizure activity is a serious side effect of metronidazole and should be reported to the charge nurse immediately.

Choice B rationale

While headache is a common side effect of metronidazole, it is not as serious as seizure activity and does not necessarily need to be reported to the charge nurse unless it is severe or persistent.

Choice C rationale

A metallic taste in the mouth is a common side effect of metronidazole. It is not a serious side effect and does not need to be reported to the charge nurse.

Choice D rationale

Abdominal cramping can be a side effect of metronidazole. However, it is not as serious as seizure activity and does not necessarily need to be reported to the charge nurse unless it is severe or persistent.

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