The nurse is providing education to a patient who has been prescribed both an antacid and ranitidine (an H2 receptor blocker). Which instruction should the nurse give the patient about taking the medications?
Take the antacid 1 hour after the ranitidine.
The antacid and ranitidine should be taken at the same time for better effect.
Take both medications at the same time before meals.
Patient can't take both of these medications and needs to be on one of these medications only.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Taking an antacid one hour after ranitidine is recommended because antacids can affect the absorption of H2 receptor blockers like ranitidine. Ranitidine works by reducing stomach acid production, whereas antacids neutralize existing acid. Taking the antacid too close to the ranitidine can reduce the effectiveness of the ranitidine by altering the stomach's pH balance and affecting its absorption.
Choice B reason:
Taking an antacid and ranitidine at the same time does not enhance their effect. In fact, this can interfere with the absorption and effectiveness of ranitidine. Antacids can increase the pH of the stomach, which may reduce the absorption of ranitidine, thus diminishing its acid-reducing effects.
Choice C reason:
Taking both medications at the same time before meals is not advisable for the same reason as above. The simultaneous administration can reduce the effectiveness of ranitidine, as the increased pH caused by the antacid can interfere with the absorption of the H2 receptor blocker, thereby not providing the intended therapeutic effect.
Choice D reason:
The patient can take both medications, but they should be timed correctly to ensure optimal effectiveness. Saying that the patient needs to be on one medication only is incorrect. Both medications can be used together, but the antacid should be taken after ranitidine to avoid any interaction that might impair the effectiveness of ranitidine.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice C reason: Limiting pancreatic secretion is the primary reason for making patients with acute pancreatitis NPO and using gastric suctioning. By reducing the stimulation of the pancreas, the inflammation and autodigestion of pancreatic tissue can be minimized, aiding in the healing process.
Choice A reason: Preventing abdominal distention is a secondary benefit of making patients NPO, but it is not the primary reason for this intervention in acute pancreatitis.
Choice B reason: Preventing mechanical obstruction of the intestine is not the main goal of making patients NPO in acute pancreatitis. This condition primarily affects the pancreas, not the intestines.
Choice D reason: Preventing hyperglycemia associated with loss of insulin secretion is not the primary reason for making patients NPO in acute pancreatitis. While hyperglycemia can occur in severe cases, the main focus is on reducing pancreatic stimulation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice C reason: Abdominal distention and hypogastric pain are classic signs and symptoms of large bowel obstruction. The obstruction prevents the normal passage of intestinal contents, leading to a buildup of gas and fluid, which causes distention and pain.
Choice A reason: Epigastric pain and rectal bleeding are not typical signs of large bowel obstruction. These symptoms are more commonly associated with other gastrointestinal conditions, such as peptic ulcers or colorectal cancer.
Choice B reason: Fluid overload and passing gas are not characteristic of large bowel obstruction. In fact, the inability to pass gas is a common symptom of bowel obstruction.
Choice D reason: Diarrhea and excessive thirst are not typical signs of large bowel obstruction. Diarrhea is more commonly associated with conditions affecting the small intestine or infections, while excessive thirst is a symptom of dehydration or diabetes.
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