A client asks the nurse about a prescription for the antihistamine, diphenhydramine (Benadryl). The nurse should teach the client that this medication is contraindicated in clients who have a history of which condition?
Asthma
Hypertension
Glaucoma
Depression
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Asthma
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that can cause drying of the airways and thickening of bronchial secretions, which might exacerbate asthma symptoms. However, it is not strictly contraindicated in asthma patients. Instead, caution is advised, and it should be used under medical supervision if necessary.
Choice B reason: Hypertension
While diphenhydramine can cause mild increases in blood pressure due to its anticholinergic effects, it is not contraindicated in patients with hypertension. Patients with hypertension should use it cautiously and under medical advice, but it is not an absolute contraindication.
Choice C reason: Glaucoma
Diphenhydramine is contraindicated in patients with glaucoma, particularly closed-angle glaucoma. This is because diphenhydramine has anticholinergic properties that can increase intraocular pressure, potentially worsening the condition. Patients with glaucoma should avoid using diphenhydramine to prevent complications related to increased eye pressure.
Choice D reason: Depression
Diphenhydramine is not contraindicated in patients with depression. However, it can cause drowsiness and sedation, which might affect mood and energy levels. Patients with depression should use it cautiously and under medical supervision, but it is not an absolute contraindication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Placing a surgical mask on the client during transport is not the primary precaution for C. difficile infections. C. difficile is primarily transmitted through contact with contaminated surfaces and not through respiratory droplets. Therefore, while masks may be used for other infections, they are not the main precaution for C. difficile.
Choice B reason: Using gown and gloves when entering the room is essential for preventing the spread of C. difficile. This infection is highly contagious and can be transmitted through contact with contaminated surfaces or feces. Gown and gloves provide a barrier that helps prevent the transmission of the bacteria to healthcare workers and other patients.
Choice C reason: Using an alcohol-based agent to perform hand hygiene is not effective against C. difficile spores. Hand washing with soap and water is recommended because it is more effective at removing the spores from the hands. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers do not kill C. difficile spores and should not be relied upon for hand hygiene in this context.
Choice D reason: Obtaining a blood specimen to test for C. difficile is not the standard diagnostic method. C. difficile infections are typically diagnosed through stool tests that detect the presence of the bacteria or its toxins. Blood tests are not used for diagnosing C. difficile infections.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Prolonging the life of a client is not the primary focus of palliative care. While palliative care can sometimes extend life by improving overall well-being and reducing stress, its main goal is to enhance the quality of life by managing symptoms and providing comfort12. Palliative care is not primarily aimed at life extension but rather at ensuring that patients live as well as possible despite their illness.
Choice B Reason:
Controlling symptoms and providing comfort is the core focus of palliative care. This type of care aims to alleviate pain and other distressing symptoms, such as nausea, shortness of breath, and fatigue12. Palliative care also addresses emotional, social, and spiritual needs, helping patients and their families cope with the challenges of serious illness. By focusing on comfort and quality of life, palliative care supports patients in living as fully as possible.
Choice C Reason:
Replacing other treatments for an illness is not the focus of palliative care. Palliative care is designed to complement, not replace, other medical treatments12. It can be provided alongside curative or life-prolonging treatments, offering additional support to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The goal is to provide a holistic approach to care that addresses all aspects of a patient’s well-being.
Choice D Reason:
Curing a serious illness is not the aim of palliative care. Palliative care is appropriate for patients at any stage of a serious illness, whether or not a cure is possible12. Its primary focus is on symptom management, comfort, and quality of life, rather than on curing the illness. This approach helps patients and their families navigate the complexities of serious health conditions with greater ease and support.
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