A patient is taking guaifenesin as part of treatment for a sinus infection. Which instruction will the nurse include during patient teaching?
Report symptoms that last longer than 2 days.
Report clear-colored sputum to the prescriber.
Avoid driving a car or operating heavy machinery because of the sedating effects.
Increase fluid intake to help loosen and liquefy secretions.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because reporting symptoms that last longer than 2 days is not specific to guaifenesin. This is a general instruction for any patient with a sinus infection, regardless of the medication they are taking.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because reporting clear-colored sputum to the prescriber is not necessary. Clear-colored sputum indicates that the infection is improving and the mucus is thinning. This is a desired effect of guaifenesin, not a problem that needs to be reported.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because guaifenesin does not have sedating effects. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps to break up and expel mucus from the respiratory tract. It does not cause drowsiness or impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Choice D reason: This is correct because increasing fluid intake is an important instruction for a patient taking guaifenesin. Fluids help to hydrate the body and thin the mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear the sinuses. Fluids also help to prevent dehydration and dryness of the mucous membranes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Hyperkalemia is not the correct answer. Hyperkalemia is a high level of potassium in the blood. Corticosteroids do not cause hyperkalemia, but rather hypokalemia. Hyperkalemia may be caused by other factors such as renal failure, acidosis, or potassium-sparing diuretics.
Choice B reason: Hypokalemia is the correct answer. Hypokalemia is a low level of potassium in the blood. Corticosteroids can cause hypokalemia by increasing the excretion of potassium and sodium in the urine. Hypokalemia can cause muscle weakness, cramps, arrhythmias, and digoxin toxicity.
Choice C reason: Hypermagnesemia is not the correct answer. Hypermagnesemia is a high level of magnesium in the blood. Corticosteroids do not affect magnesium levels. Hypermagnesemia may be caused by other factors such as renal failure, excessive antacid use, or magnesium-containing laxatives.
Choice D reason: Hypomagnesemia is not the correct answer. Hypomagnesemia is a low level of magnesium in the blood. Corticosteroids do not affect magnesium levels. Hypomagnesemia may be caused by other factors such as malnutrition, alcoholism, or diuretic use.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because the client should avoid live vaccines while taking prednisone, as it can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of infection.
Choice B reason: This is correct because prednisone can cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) and bananas are a good source of potassium. The client should monitor their potassium levels and eat foods rich in potassium while taking prednisone.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because the client should avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin while taking prednisone, as they can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect because a sore throat is not a common side effect of prednisone. However, the client should report any signs of infection, such as fever, sore throat, or cough, to the provider, as prednisone can mask the symptoms of infection.
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