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?
Decreased nighttime awakenings.
Positive stool antigen test.
Loss of 3 pounds (1.36 kg) in a month.
Reduced epigastric pain.
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The patient is receiving a nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) for HIV
treatment and reports experiencing malaise, fatigue, and anorexia. These symptoms, along
with the observed increased respiratory rate, could be indicative of liver toxicity, a known
potential side effect of NRTIs. Therefore, reviewing liver function tests would be most
important in this case.
Choice B rationale
While arterial blood gases can provide valuable information about a patient’s respiratory
status, they may not be the most relevant in this context. The patient’s symptoms and the side
effect profile of NRTIs suggest that liver function may be a more pressing concern.
Choice C rationale
A complete blood count (CBC) can provide a broad overview of a patient’s general health, but it
may not provide the specific information needed to assess the patient’s current symptoms and
potential medication side effects.
Choice D rationale
A basic metabolic panel can provide information about a patient’s kidney function, electrolyte
levels, and blood sugar levels, among other things. However, given the patient’s symptoms and
medication regimen, liver function tests may be more relevant.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Pyridoxine with a B complex multivitamin is not typically associated with ototoxicity (ringing
in the ears)7.
Choice B rationale
Rifampin is an antitubercular medication, but it is not commonly associated with ototoxicity.
Choice C rationale
Gentamicin is an antibiotic that is known to potentially cause ototoxicity, including ringing in
the ears. Therefore, if a patient who has been receiving gentamicin reports ringing in the ears,
this should be reported to the healthcare provider.
Choice D rationale
Isoniazid is an antitubercular medication, but it is not commonly associated with ototoxicity.
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