A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving positive pressure mechanical ventilation. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement to prevent complications? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason: I may have a dry mouth while taking this medication

Dry mouth is a common side effect of chlorpromazine, which is an antipsychotic medication used to treat various mental health conditions. This side effect occurs because chlorpromazine can reduce saliva production. Patients should be advised to maintain good oral hygiene and stay hydrated to manage this symptom.

Choice B reason: This medication may cause me to urinate frequently

Frequent urination is not a typical side effect of chlorpromazine. Instead, chlorpromazine can cause urinary retention, which is the inability to empty the bladder completely. Therefore, this statement does not indicate a correct understanding of the medication’s side effects.

Choice C reason: This medication will help me stop smoking

Chlorpromazine is not used to help people stop smoking. It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychotic disorders. Medications specifically designed to aid smoking cessation include nicotine replacement therapies and other drugs like varenicline or bupropion.

Choice D reason: I should expect flu-like symptoms while taking this medication

Flu-like symptoms are not commonly associated with chlorpromazine. While some side effects can mimic flu symptoms, such as fatigue or muscle aches, they are not typical and should be reported to a healthcare provider if they occur. This statement does not reflect a correct understanding of the medication’s expected side effects.

Choice A reason: Administer a test dose first

Administering a test dose is not typically required for theophylline. Theophylline dosing is usually based on the patient’s weight and serum theophylline levels. A test dose is more commonly associated with medications that have a high risk of allergic reactions or require desensitization protocols, which is not the case with theophylline.

Choice B reason: Infuse the medication with an IV pump

Using an IV pump to infuse theophylline is essential to ensure accurate and controlled delivery of the medication. Theophylline has a narrow therapeutic range, and precise dosing is crucial to avoid toxicity. An IV pump allows for consistent infusion rates, reducing the risk of adverse effects. This is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take.

Choice C reason: Cover the IV container with dark paper

There is no need to cover the IV container with dark paper when administering theophylline. Theophylline is not light-sensitive, so this precaution is unnecessary. Covering IV containers is typically done for medications that degrade when exposed to light, such as certain antibiotics and chemotherapy agents.

Choice D reason: Infuse the medication at 35 mg/min

Infusing theophylline at a rate of 35 mg/min is excessively high and could lead to severe toxicity. The infusion rate for theophylline should be carefully calculated based on the patient’s weight and serum levels, and it is typically much lower than 35 mg/min. Rapid infusion can cause serious side effects, including arrhythmias and seizures.