Which statement indicates that the nurse understands what the half-life of a drug means?

Drugs with a short half-life have a greater risk for toxicity

Half-life is not affected by renal or hepatic function

if a medication has a long half-life. dosage times can be longer intervals & the drug remains effective

Half of the effective portion of the drug is metabolized by the liver

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

C. The half-life of a drug refers to the time it takes for the concentration of the drug in the bloodstream to be reduced by half. If a medication has a long half-life, it means that it stays in the body for a longer period before being eliminated. This allows for less frequent dosing intervals while still maintaining therapeutic effectiveness.

A. Drugs with a short half-life are typically cleared from the body more quickly. While they may require more frequent dosing to maintain therapeutic levels, they do not necessarily have a greater risk for toxicity compared to drugs with longer half-lives. In fact, drugs with longer half-lives can accumulate in the body over time, potentially increasing the risk of toxicity.

B. The half-life of a drug can be significantly influenced by renal (kidney) and hepatic (liver) function. Impaired renal or hepatic function can prolong the half-life of a drug, leading to slower elimination and potentially increased risk of adverse effects.

D. This statement describes the concept of drug metabolism rather than the half-life. Drug metabolism refers to the biochemical alteration of drugs by enzymes, often occurring in the liver. The half-life, on the other hand, specifically relates to the elimination of the drug from the body.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

C. Regular assessment of the IV site is crucial to detect early signs of infiltration. Signs of infiltration include swelling, coolness, pain, or blanching around the insertion site. Assessing the site allows nurses to intervene promptly if infiltration occurs, preventing further complications such as tissue damage or fluid overload.

A. Flushing the IV catheter with normal saline helps to maintain patency and prevent blockage of the catheter. It also ensures that medications are effectively delivered into the bloodstream. While this action is important for maintaining the function of the IV catheter, it primarily addresses patency rather than preventing infiltration directly.

B. Securing the IV catheter to the extremity with a securement device (such as tape or a transparent dressing) helps prevent accidental dislodgement or movement of the catheter. This reduces the risk of

mechanical irritation at the insertion site, which can contribute to infiltration. Proper securement also ensures that the catheter remains in place during movement or patient activities.

D. Proper technique during catheter insertion helps reduce the risk of infection and subsequent complications, but it also indirectly contributes to preventing infiltration. Contamination during insertion can lead to inflammation or infection at the site, which may increase the risk of infiltration due to compromised tissue integrity.

A. Measure vital signs. B. Lower the head of the bed. C. Verify tube patency. D. Assist the client to a prone position.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

C. Before administering a feeding through a gastrostomy tube, it is essential to verify that the tube is patent (open and unobstructed). Tube patency ensures that the feeding formula or medication can flow freely into the stomach or intestines without encountering any blockages or resistance. The nurse should flush the tube with water to check for patency and ensure proper functioning before initiating the feeding.

A. Vital signs are typically assessed for overall health monitoring and to detect any immediate changes in the client's condition. However, they are not specifically required before every feeding via gastrostomy tube unless there are specific concerns about the client's stability.

B. This option is not typically necessary before administering a feeding through a gastrostomy tube. In fact, elevating the head of the bed to at least 30 to 45 degrees is often recommended during and after feeding to minimize the risk of aspiration. This position helps to promote digestion and reduce the likelihood of reflux or regurgitation of the feeding.

D. Assisting the client to a prone (face-down) position is unnecessary and potentially unsafe before administering a feeding through a gastrostomy tube. The recommended position for feeding via gastrostomy tube is typically semi-Fowler's position (elevated head of the bed), which helps prevent aspiration and facilitates digestion.

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Which statement indicates that the nurse understands what the half-life of a drug means?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse understands that the most beneficial action to take to prevent an IV from infiltrating is to:

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The nurse is preparing to administer a feeding to a client with a gastrostomy tube. What should the nurse do before providing this feeding?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Which statement indicates that the nurse understands what the half-life of a drug means?