Which of the following medications is not categorized as a tocolytic?
Oxytocin (Pitocin)
Magnesium Sulfate
Nifedipine (Procardia)
Indomethacin (Indocin)
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Oxytocin is a hormone that stimulates uterine contractions. It is not a tocolytic, which is a medication that inhibits uterine contractions. In fact, oxytocin is often used to induce labor or to augment labor that is progressing slowly.
It acts on the myofibrils in the uterine muscle, causing them to contract more forcefully and frequently. This leads to cervical dilation and effacement, and ultimately to the birth of the baby.
Oxytocin is typically administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion. The dosage is carefully titrated to achieve the desired effect on the uterus.
It is important to note that oxytocin can have serious side effects, including uterine hyperstimulation, fetal distress, and postpartum hemorrhage. Therefore, it should only be used under the close supervision of a healthcare provider.
Choice B rationale:
Magnesium sulfate is a tocolytic that is often used to prevent preterm labor. It works by relaxing the smooth muscle of the uterus.
It is typically administered as an IV infusion. The dosage is carefully monitored to ensure that the magnesium level in the blood does not become too high.
Side effects of magnesium sulfate can include flushing, nausea, vomiting, and headache. In rare cases, it can also cause serious complications such as respiratory depression and cardiac arrest.
Choice C rationale:
Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker that is sometimes used as a tocolytic. It works by relaxing the smooth muscle of the uterus and blood vessels.
It is typically administered as an oral tablet. Side effects of nifedipine can include headache, dizziness, flushing, and low blood pressure.
Choice D rationale:
Indomethacin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is sometimes used as a tocolytic. It works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are substances that promote uterine contractions.
It is typically administered as an oral tablet or suppository. Side effects of indomethacin can include nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and diarrhea.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Propylthiouracil (PTU) is a thionamide medication that inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones. It is the preferred drug for presurgical treatment of Graves' disease because it effectively lowers thyroid hormone levels and reduces the risk of thyroid storm, a life-threatening complication that can occur during or after surgery.
PTU acts by blocking the enzyme thyroid peroxidase, which is essential for the production of thyroid hormones. It also inhibits the conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3), the more active form of thyroid hormone. This results in a decrease in circulating levels of both T4 and T3, leading to a reduction in the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
PTU is typically started at a dose of 100-300 mg daily, divided into two or three doses. The dose is then adjusted based on the patient's response and thyroid hormone levels. The goal of treatment is to achieve a euthyroid state, which means that the thyroid hormone levels are within the normal range.
PTU is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause some side effects, including skin rash, itching, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, joint pain, and hair loss. In rare cases, it can also cause serious side effects, such as liver damage and agranulocytosis (a decrease in white blood cells).
Choice B rationale:
Liotrix (Thyrolar) is a combination of synthetic T4 and T3 hormones. It is not used for presurgical treatment of Graves' disease because it can worsen the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Choice C rationale:
Propranolol (Inderal) is a beta-blocker medication that can be used to control the symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as tachycardia, tremor, and anxiety. However, it does not lower thyroid hormone levels and is not used for presurgical treatment of Graves' disease.
Choice D rationale:
Levothyroxine sodium (Synthroid) is a synthetic T4 hormone. It is used to treat hypothyroidism, but it is not used for presurgical treatment of Graves' disease.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale for Choice A:
Repeating the dose of nitroglycerin SL is not recommended at this time due to the patient's hypotension (blood pressure of 88/68 mmHg).
Administering additional nitroglycerin could further lower the blood pressure, potentially leading to adverse consequences such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or even fainting.
It's crucial to prioritize patient safety and avoid actions that could exacerbate their condition. Rationale for Choice B:
Notifying the provider is the most appropriate action in this situation for several reasons:
The patient's chest pain has not been relieved by the initial dose of nitroglycerin, indicating a need for further evaluation and potential adjustments to the treatment plan.
The patient's blood pressure is low, which warrants close monitoring and possible intervention to prevent complications.
The provider can assess the patient's overall clinical picture, including other symptoms and medical history, to determine the best course of action.
Early notification allows for timely interventions and potential prevention of further complications. Rationale for Choice C:
While nitroglycerin by translingual spray may be considered in some cases of persistent angina, it's not the most appropriate choice in this situation due to the patient's hypotension.
The translingual spray can also have a rapid onset of action, which might further lower the blood pressure if not carefully monitored.
It's essential to consider the patient's overall hemodynamic status before administering any medication that could potentially affect blood pressure.
Rationale for Choice D:
Administering NPH insulin is not relevant to the management of angina or chest pain.
Insulin is used to treat hyperglycemia in patients with diabetes, and its administration would not address the underlying issue of the patient's chest pain.
It's important to select interventions that are directly targeted at the patient's presenting symptoms and condition.
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.