The practical nurse (PN) is preparing to administer a scheduled dose of benztropine to a client with Parkinson’s disease.
The client reports having a very dry mouth. Which action should the PN take?
Administer the scheduled medication and provide oral care.
Review the serum drug level before administering the medication.
Withhold the scheduled medication and notify the charge nurse.
Observe the client’s gums for signs of tissue overgrowth.
The Correct Answer is A
Benztropine is used as an adjunct therapy for the treatment of all forms of Parkinson’s disease3. It works by reducing the activity of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that nerve terminals release to make muscles contract3. One of the side effects of benztropine is dry mouth3. If a patient reports having a very dry mouth, the practical nurse should administer the scheduled medication and provide oral care to help alleviate the symptom3.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Pill-rolling hand motions are a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease. This is a type of tremor where the thumb and fingers rub together in a circular motion as if rolling a pill. This is not a contraindication to administering carbidopa-levodopa.
Choice B rationale
Anorexia, or loss of appetite, could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition or a side effect of the medication. This would require further assessment before administering the medication.
Choice C rationale
A flat affect, or reduced emotional expressiveness, is another common symptom of Parkinson’s disease. This would not typically require further assessment before administering carbidopa- levodopa.
Choice D rationale
Dizziness can be a side effect of carbidopa-levodopa. However, it would not typically require further assessment before administering the medication unless it was severe or persistent.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice D, Hold the medication until the meal tray arrives. Acarbose is an oral antidiabetic medication that works by slowing the digestion of carbohydrates in the small intestine, thereby reducing the rise in blood glucose after meals. It is important to take acarbose at the start of each main meal, as it works on the food that is consumed. If the meal is delayed, the medication should also be delayed.
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.