The nurse is discharging a client who underwent an open reduction with internal fixation of the right hip secondary to a fracture related to osteoporosis. The client is prescribed a bisphosphonate to be taken daily. What should the nurse include in the discharge instructions regarding this medication?
The medication must be taken on an empty stomach, only with water
Calcium supplements are not needed when taking a bisphosphonate
The client must lie down for 30 minutes following ingestion of the drug.
Calcium supplements are recommended in lieu of calcium taken with food.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Bisphosphonates (e.g., alendronate, risedronate) must be taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water in the morning to enhance absorption. No other food, drink, or medications should be taken for at least 30 minutes afterward.
B. Calcium supplements may still be prescribed in addition to bisphosphonates for osteoporosis management. They are not excluded.
C. Clients must remain upright (sitting or standing) for at least 30 minutes after ingestion to prevent esophageal irritation or reflux, not lie down.
D. Calcium supplements are often recommended, but they should be taken at a different time of day than bisphosphonates to avoid interference with absorption.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A sudden onset of severe hip pain with observable shortening and external rotation of the affected extremity is a hallmark sign of hip dislocation, a serious complication after hip replacement surgery. This requires immediate intervention to prevent neurovascular damage.
B. Incision dehiscence involves the surgical wound opening but does not typically cause leg shortening or severe sudden hip pain.
C. Bleeding at the operative site may lead to swelling, bruising, or decreased hemoglobin, but it does not cause limb shortening or abrupt severe pain localized to the hip joint.
D. Infection usually develops gradually with fever, redness, warmth, or drainage at the surgical site, not a sudden severe pain with extremity shortening.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A weight gain of 3 pounds in 24 hours indicates fluid retention, which can quickly progress to fluid overload, pulmonary edema, and heart failure. This is the priority finding to report.
B. Decreased muscle strength may occur due to electrolyte imbalance or fatigue but is not immediately life-threatening.
C. An elevated BUN is expected in chronic kidney disease and is not as urgent as acute fluid retention.
D. Bilateral 2+ pedal pulses are normal and do not require reporting.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.