The nurse is providing instruction about ipratropium (Atrovent) to a patient with COPD. Which is a common adverse effect that tends to resolve with therapy?
Dry mouth
Anxiety
Tachycardia
Urine retention
The Correct Answer is A
A. Dry mouth
Dry mouth is a common adverse effect of ipratropium (Atrovent) due to its anticholinergic properties. Anticholinergic medications can inhibit saliva production, leading to a sensation of dryness in the mouth. While uncomfortable, dry mouth tends to improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. Patients can manage dry mouth by increasing fluid intake and practicing good oral hygiene.
B. Anxiety
Anxiety is not a common adverse effect of ipratropium (Atrovent). While some individuals may experience anxiety as a side effect of certain medications, it is not typically associated with ipratropium. If a patient experiences anxiety while taking ipratropium, it is essential to assess whether it may be related to other factors or medications and to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate management.
C. Tachycardia
Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) is not a common adverse effect of ipratropium (Atrovent). While ipratropium is an anticholinergic medication that can affect heart rate in some individuals, tachycardia is not typically reported as a common side effect. However, patients should be monitored for changes in heart rate and other cardiovascular effects while taking ipratropium, especially if they have pre-existing cardiac conditions.
D. Urine retention
Urinary retention is a potential adverse effect of ipratropium (Atrovent) due to its anticholinergic properties. Anticholinergic medications can relax the smooth muscle of the bladder, leading to difficulty emptying the bladder completely. However, urinary retention is less common with ipratropium compared to other anticholinergic medications, such as those used to treat overactive bladder. Patients experiencing urinary retention while taking ipratropium should consult their healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Treatment is not needed if the client is asymptomatic.
Even asymptomatic pulmonary embolisms can lead to complications such as progression to symptomatic PE or development of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. Therefore, treatment is necessary to prevent these complications.
B. Treatment is not needed if the pulmonary embolism is intermediate.
The severity of a pulmonary embolism is determined by various factors, including the size and location of the clot and the degree of obstruction in the pulmonary arteries. Intermediate-risk pulmonary embolisms still require treatment to prevent complications and reduce the risk of progression to a more severe or life-threatening condition.
C. Treatment is not needed if the client is hemodynamically stable.
Hemodynamic stability refers to the client's circulatory status and whether they are maintaining adequate blood flow to vital organs. While hemodynamically stable clients may not require aggressive interventions such as thrombolytic therapy or surgical embolectomy, they still require anticoagulant therapy to prevent further clot formation and reduce the risk of complications.
D. Treatment is needed for all clients who have a pulmonary embolism.
Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt treatment. Regardless of the severity of symptoms or the client's hemodynamic stability, treatment is necessary to prevent complications and reduce the risk of recurrence. Treatment typically includes anticoagulant therapy to prevent further clot formation and may include additional interventions such as thrombolytic therapy or surgical interventions in certain cases.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Muscle twitching
Muscle twitching is not a typical manifestation of oxygen toxicity. Instead, muscle twitching may be indicative of other conditions such as electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypocalcemia or hypomagnesemia), neuromuscular disorders, or overstimulation of the nervous system.
B. Metallic taste in mouth
A metallic taste in the mouth is not commonly associated with oxygen toxicity. Instead, a metallic taste in the mouth may occur as a side effect of certain medications, dental issues, or as a symptom of other medical conditions such as acid reflux or oral infections.
C. Facial flushing
Facial flushing is a characteristic finding in oxygen toxicity. When exposed to high levels of oxygen over an extended period, individuals may experience facial flushing due to the vasodilatory effects of oxygen on blood vessels. This dilation of blood vessels leads to increased blood flow to the face, resulting in flushing or reddening of the skin.
D. Periorbital edema
Periorbital edema, or swelling around the eyes, is not a typical manifestation of oxygen toxicity. Instead, periorbital edema may occur as a result of various other conditions such as allergies, sinusitis, or fluid retention. It is not directly related to exposure to high levels of oxygen.

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