The nurse caring for a patient with a productive cough would anticipate an order for the following medication:
dextromethorphan (Robitussin)
fluticasone (Flonase)
pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
guaifenesin (Mucinex)
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Dextromethorphan (Robitussin) is not the correct medication for a patient with a productive cough. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that works by acting on the brain to reduce the cough reflex. Dextromethorphan is used for a dry, nonproductive cough that is caused by irritation or inflammation. Dextromethorphan is not effective for a productive cough that produces mucus, and it may even be harmful by preventing the clearance of secretions from the lungs.
Choice B reason: Fluticasone (Flonase) is not the correct medication for a patient with a productive cough. Fluticasone is a corticosteroid that works by reducing inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages. Fluticasone is used for allergic rhinitis, which is a condition that causes sneezing, itching, and runny nose due to an allergic reaction. Fluticasone is not effective for a productive cough that produces mucus, and it may even worsen it by suppressing the immune system and increasing the risk of infection.
Choice C reason: Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) is not the correct medication for a patient with a productive cough. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that works by constricting the blood vessels in the nasal passages and sinuses. Pseudoephedrine is used for nasal congestion, which is a condition that causes stuffy nose and difficulty breathing due to swelling of the mucous membranes. Pseudoephedrine is not effective for a productive cough that produces mucus, and it may even cause side effects such as increased blood pressure, insomnia, and anxiety.
Choice D reason: Guaifenesin (Mucinex) is the correct medication for a patient with a productive cough. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that works by thinning and loosening the mucus in the chest and throat. Guaifenesin is used for a productive cough that produces mucus, as it helps the cough to be more effective and clear the airways. Guaifenesin is generally safe and well tolerated, but it may cause some minor side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and headache.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Serum potassium level of 5.5 mEq/L is above the normal range of 3.55.0 mEq/L, but it is not a concern for the client taking Lasix, which is a medication that increases the urine output and lowers the blood pressure by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidney. Lasix can also cause the loss of potassium in the urine, which can lead to hypokalemia, a condition that causes muscle weakness, cramps, arrhythmias, or cardiac arrest. The nurse should monitor the serum potassium level and administer potassium supplements or potassium sparing diuretics as prescribed to prevent hypokalemia.
Choice B reason: Blood pressure of 130/80 mmHg is slightly above the normal range of 120/80 mmHg, but it is not a concern for the client taking Lasix, which is a medication that increases the urine output and lowers the blood pressure by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidney. Lasix can reduce the fluid volume and the peripheral resistance, which can lower the blood pressure and prevent or treat hypertension, edema, or heart failure. The nurse should monitor the blood pressure regularly and adjust the dose of Lasix as prescribed to maintain a normal blood pressure.
Choice C reason: Serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L is below the normal range of 3.55.0 mEq/L, and it is a concern for the client taking Lasix, which is a medication that increases the urine output and lowers the blood pressure by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidney. Lasix can also cause the loss of potassium in the urine, which can lead to hypokalemia, a condition that causes muscle weakness, cramps, arrhythmias, or cardiac arrest. The nurse should notify the health care provider immediately and prepare to administer interventions such as potassium supplements or potassium sparing diuretics to correct hypokalemia.
Choice D reason: Serum sodium level of 140 mEq/L is within the normal range of 135145 mEq/L, and it is not a concern for the client taking Lasix, which is a medication that increases the urine output and lowers the blood pressure by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidney. Lasix can cause the loss of sodium in the urine, which can lead to hyponatremia, a condition that causes confusion, seizures, coma, or death. The nurse should monitor the serum sodium level and administer sodium supplements or fluids as prescribed to prevent hyponatremia.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Past medical history of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is not a contraindication or a concern for administering Reglan, which is a medication that stimulates the motility of the upper gastrointestinal tract and treats nausea, heartburn, and gastroparesis¹. Reglan does not affect the prostate or urinary function.
Choice B reason: Blood pressure of 132/82 is slightly above the normal range of 120/80, but it is not a cause for concern or a reason to withhold Reglan. Reglan can lower the blood pressure by reducing the fluid volume and preventing sodium retention¹. The nurse should monitor the blood pressure regularly, but does not need to notify the health care provider about this finding.
Choice C reason: Allergy to corn is a concern for administering Reglan, as some formulations of Reglan may contain corn starch as an inactive ingredient. Corn starch can trigger an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to corn, causing symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis. The nurse should check the label of the Reglan product and avoid using it if it contains corn starch. The nurse should also notify the health care provider and the pharmacy about the patient's allergy and request an alternative medication or formulation.
Choice D reason: Past medical history of gout is not a contraindication or a concern for administering Reglan, which is a medication that stimulates the motility of the upper gastrointestinal tract and treats nausea, heartburn, and gastroparesis¹. Reglan does not affect the uric acid levels or the joints.
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