pharmacology final exam
The nurse is caring for a 6-year-old patient with cystic fibrosis. The parents ask how the cystic fibrosis started. The nurse explains that the key feature in the presentation of cystic fibrosis includes what? A) Airway obstruction B) Obstructed bowel C) Sweet-tasting sweat D) Clubbing of the extremities
Ans: A Feedback: CF results in the accumulation of copious amounts of very thick secretions in the lungs. Eventually, the secretions obstruct the airways, leading to destruction of the lung tissue. Parents will often comment that their child tastes salty, not sweet. Newborns with CF often present with meconium ileus but not a bowel obstruction. Clubbing of the extremities occurs after many years of inadequate oxygenation.
A patient with chronic bronchial asthma is prescribed montelukast (Singulair). What will the nurse instruct the patient to avoid taking? A) Aspirin B) Penicillin C) Sertraline (Zoloft) D) Nifedipine (Procardia)
Ans: A Feedback: The nurse would instruct the patient to avoid aspirin, which might cause an increased montelukast level and toxicity. The other options do not cause drugdrug interactions with montelukast.
The nurse advises that patient to avoid long-term use of nasal decongestants because it may lead to what condition? A) Mucosal ulcerations B) Decreased drainage C) Increased risk of infection D) Asthma
Ans: A Feedback: Adverse effects associated with topical decongestants include local stinging and burning, which may occur the first few times the drug is used. If the sensation does not resolve, the drug should be discontinued, because it may indicate lesions or erosion of the mucous membranes. Nasal decongestants do not cause asthma or increased risk of infection. These medications do not decrease drainage from the nose as they shrink the nasal mucosa.
A student nurse is doing research consisting of chart audits of 25 patients with diagnosed chronic pharyngitis; she is attempting to determine what medication has been prescribed most frequently. What type of medication would this nurse expect to find in most of the chart audits? A) Antitussives B) Nasal sprays C) Oral decongestants D) Mucolytics
Ans: A Feedback: Antitussives are drugs that suppress the cough reflex. Many disorders involving the respiratory tract, including the common cold, sinusitis, pharyngitis, and pneumonia are accompanied by an uncomfortable, nonproductive cough. Persistent coughing can be exhausting and can cause muscle strain and further irritation of the respiratory tract. Nasal sprays, oral decongestants, and mucolytics are not generally prescribed for chronic pharyngitis, however.
A nurse is caring for a 73-year-old woman who just arrived on the medical surgical floor following a radical mastectomy for breast cancer. The nurse will encourage the patient to cough and breathe deeply to help prevent what? A) Atelectasis B) Asthma C) Bronchiectasis D) Sinusitis
Ans: A Feedback: Atelectasis most commonly occurs as a result of airway blockage, which prevents air from entering the alveoli, keeping the lung expanded. This occurs when a mucous plug, edema of the bronchioles, or a collection of pus or secretions occludes the airway and prevents the movement of air. Patients may experience atelectasis after surgery, when the effects of anesthesia, pain, and decreased coughing reflexes can lead to a decreased tidal volume and accumulation of secretions in the lower airways.
The patient is a 34-year-old man who recently started taking theophylline. The nurse knows that medication teaching has been successful when he agrees to what activity? A) Avoiding caffeine B) Eating foods high in potassium C) Limiting fluid intake to 1,000 mL a day D) Taking the medicine on an empty stomach
Ans: A Feedback: Both theophylline and caffeine are xanthenes. Theophylline increases cardiac output and heart rate. Caffeine also stimulates heart rate. This can have an additive effect. Eating foods high in potassium, limiting fluid intake, or taking the medicine on an empty stomach are not indications that the patient has understood the nurse's teaching.
The nurse is caring for a patient who needs education on his medication therapy for allergic rhinitis. The patient is to take clemastine (Tavist) daily. In providing educational interventions regarding this medication, what is the most important instruction on the action of the medication? A) It blocks the effects of histamine. B) It is used to treat atrial and ventricular dysrhythmias. C) It competitively inhibits the rate-limiting enzyme in the liver. D) It leads to bronchodilation and relaxes smooth muscle in the bronchi.
Ans: A Feedback: Clemastine blocks the effects of histamine at the histamine-1 receptor sites, decreasing the allergic response. It is prescribed to treat allergic rhinitis.
A patient presents at the clinic with signs and symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis. The patient is prescribed a nasal steroid to relieve symptoms. Two days later, the patient calls the clinic and tells the nurse that he is frustrated and wants a new drug. What is the most appropriate response by the nurse? A) It may take up to 2 weeks to get the full clinical effect. Try to keep using the drug as ordered. B) The drug must not work for you. Let's change to an oral steroid. C) You probably are administering the drug incorrectly. Come in and we can review the process. D) You probably need to try a different nasal steroid. This one should be effective by now.
Ans: A Feedback: Nasal steroids require about 2 weeks to reach their full clinical effect so the patient should be encouraged to use the drug for that length of time before changing drugs or giving up. The other responses could be appropriate if after 2 weeks the patient is still not getting relief.
The nurse is giving discharge instructions to the mother of a 3-month-old infant who has an upper respiratory tract infection and has been prescribed a pseudoephedrine nasal solution. What instructions are most important for the nurse to give to this mother? A) Instill the medication 20 to 30 minutes before feeding. B) Keep the baby on clear liquids until the nasal discharge has resolved. C) Start the baby on cereal, because she is having difficulty sucking right now. D) Give the medication immediately after feeding.
Ans: A Feedback: Oral decongestants are drugs that are taken by mouth to decrease nasal congestion related to the common cold, sinusitis, and allergic rhinitis. They are also used to relieve the pain and congestion of otitis media. Opening of the nasal passage allows better drainage of the Eustachian tube, relieving pressure in the middle ear. It should be given prior to a feeding so that infant is able to suck more effectively.
Parents who treat their children's cold and flu symptoms at home should be educated concerning the reading and understanding of over-the-counter (OTC) labels. Why is this statement true? A) Many of these preparations contain the same active ingredients so that inadvertent overdose is a common problem. B) Each product is best used for alleviating a particular symptom. C) Some of these products do not contain any drugs. D) Some of these products could interfere with breast-feeding
Ans: A Feedback: Parents need to be educated to read the labels of any OTC preparation they give their children. Many of these preparations contain the same ingredients and inadvertent overdose is a common problem.
A nurse is caring for a patient with chronic bronchiectasis. The nurse should assess the patient for what clinical manifestations? A) Purulent cough B) Angina C) Pigeon chest D) Pulmonary hypertension
Ans: A Feedback: Patients present with the signs and symptoms of acute infection, including fever, malaise, myalgia, arthralgia, and a purulent, productive cough.
The anatomy and physiology teacher is discussing ventilation with the nursing students. What would the instructor say causes an increased respiratory rate? A) Increased stimulation of the respiratory center B) Decreased stimulation of the respiratory center C) Increased O2 D) Decreased pH
Ans: A Feedback: Respiration, or the act of breathing to allow gas exchange, is controlled by the central nervous system. The inspiratory muscles diaphragm, external intercostal muscles, and abdominal muscles are stimulated to contract by the respiratory center in the medulla. The medulla receives input from chemoreceptors (neuroreceptors sensitive to carbon dioxide and acid levels) to increase the rate and/or depth of respiration to maintain homeostasis in the body.
The nursing instructor is discussing the oxygenation process and explains unoxygenated blood is received from the right ventricle by the alveoli. The delivery of this blood is referred to as what? A) Perfusion B) Oxygenation C) Expiration D) Inhalation
Ans: A Feedback: The lung tissue receives its blood supply from the bronchial artery, which branches directly off the aorta. The alveoli receive unoxygenated blood from the right ventricle via the pulmonary artery. The delivery of this blood to the alveoli is referred to as pulmonary perfusion
A 71-year-old man with a history of heart disease and diabetes has had an antihistamine prescribed. The nurse is concerned with this prescription because of the risk for what? A) Cardiac arrhythmias B) Increased salivation and choking C) Severe constipation D) Insomnia
Ans: A Feedback: The patient has history of heart disease. Antihistamines have been associated with prolongation of the QT interval, which can lead to potentially fatal cardiac arrhythmias. Antihistamines dry the mucosa and are not associated with increased salivation or choking, can cause drowsiness, and are not associated with insomnia or severe constipation.
The pediatric nurse practitioner is caring for a child who is diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF). The parents ask what the treatment is for because CF is considered a terminal illness. What would be the nurse's best response? A) Treatment is aimed at maintaining airway patency as much as possible. B) Treatment is aimed at lowering high levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. C) Treatment is aimed at raising oxygen levels to the extremities. D) Treatment is aimed at maintaining the child until lung transplantation can occur
Ans: A Feedback: Treatment is aimed at keeping the secretions fluid and moving and maintaining airway patency as much as possible.
Why are inhaled steroids used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)? A) They act locally to decrease release of inflammatory mediators. B) They act locally to improve mobilization of edema. C) They act locally to increase histamine release. D) They act locally to decrease histamine release.
Ans: A Feedback: When administered into the lungs by inhalation, steroids decrease the effectiveness of the inflammatory cells. This has two effects, which are decreased swelling associated with inflammation and promotion of beta-adrenergic receptor activity, which may promote smooth muscle relaxation and inhibit bronchoconstriction.
A patient with asthma is going to begin taking an inhaled steroid. The nurse teaching the patient that what adverse effects may occur when using this drug? (Select all that apply.) A) Headache B) Rebound congestion C) Sepsis D) Epistaxis E) Depression
Ans: A, B, D Feedback: Adverse effects associated with the use of inhaled steroids include irritability, not depression, headache, rebound congestion, local infection, not sepsis and epistaxis.
An individual calls the nurse help line and asks what the drug diphenhydramine is used for. The nurse knows that the medication is prescribed for which conditions? (Select all that apply.) A) Urticaria B) Vasomotor rhinitis C) Productive cough D) Motion sickness E) Angioedema
Ans: A, B, D, E Feedback: Diphenhydramine is used for the symptomatic relief of perennial and seasonal rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, urticaria, and angioedema; it is also used for treating motion sickness and parkinsonism, as a nighttime sleep aid, and to suppress cough. It would not be used to treat a productive cough, because it is not an expectorant.
A patient has been using guaifenesin for a cough that accompanied a common cold. The patient calls the nurse help line and states that she thinks she is having an adverse reaction to the medication. The nurse knows that which symptoms are adverse effects of this medication? (Select all that apply.) A) Nausea B) Rash C) Constipation D) Bleeding E) Headache
Ans: A, B, E Feedback: Adverse effects of guaifenesin are nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and rash. Constipation and bleeding are not adverse effects of guaifenesin.
The nurse is aware that patients with bronchiectasis often have an underlying medical condition that increases the chance for infection. What are some of these medical conditions? (Select all that apply.) A) Rheumatoid arthritis B) AIDS C) Diabetes mellitus D) Hydrocephalus E) Organ transplant patient
Ans: A, B, E Feedback: Patients with bronchiectasis often have an underlying medical condition that makes them more susceptible to infections
The nurse has just admitted a patient with asthma and the emergency department doctor has ordered the patient to begin taking zafirlukast (Accolate). The nurse would hold the medication and contact the physician if the patient reported taking which medication at home? (Select all that apply.) A) Propranolol B) Warfarin C) Acetaminophen D) Ampicillin E) Terfenadine
Ans: A, B, E Feedback: Use zafirlukast with caution if propranolol, theophylline, terfenadine, or warfarin is taken at the same time because increased toxicity can occur. Toxicity may also occur if these drugs are combined with calcium channel blockers, cyclosporine, or aspirin. No reported change of toxicity occurs when the patient is currently taking acetaminophen or ampicillin.
A patient has been prescribed an antihistamine for treatment of allergic rhinitis. What statements by the patient indicate an understanding of this medication? (Select all that apply.) A) This medication will work best if I take it before I eat anything. B) I need to drink less fluid while I take this medication to help reduce the amount of mucus I have. C) I will use sugarless candies to help with the feelings of a dry mouth. D) I will use a humidifier in the bedroom while I sleep. E) This medication will probably cause my appetite to increase.
Ans: A, C, D Feedback: Antihistamines should be taken on an empty stomach and the patient should force fluids, not drink less fluids. The patient may use sugarless candy to help with dry mouth and should increase room humidity. The patient may experience nausea or anorexia but not increased hunger. Options B and E are not correct.
The nurse is caring for a patient who has just been admitted with atelectasis and anticipates which possible treatments for this patient? (Select all that apply.) A) Chest tube B) Surgical removal of the affected lung C) Oxygen delivery D) Assisted ventilation E) Anti anxiety medication
Ans: A, C, D Feedback: Treatments for atelectasis include airway clearance (e.g., postural drainage and suctioning), oxygen delivery, and assisting ventilation. Patients with atelectasis may feel some anxiety if the patient's oxygen level has lowered, but it is not a treatment for atelectasis. Removal of the portion of the lung that is affected is not an effective treatment.
The nursing instructor is talking to a group of nursing students about the treatment regimen for children with asthma. The students indicate they understand the information when they identify which class of drugs that comprise this regimen? (Select all that apply.) A) Long-acting inhaled steroids B) Xanthines C) Leukotriene-receptor antagonists D) Topical steroid nasal decongestants E) Beta-agonists
Ans: A, C, E Feedback: Antiasthmatics are frequently used in children. The leukotriene-receptor antagonists have been found to be especially effective for long-term prophylaxis in children. Acute episodes are best treated with a beta-agonist and then a long-acting inhaled steroid or a mast cell stabilizer. Xanthines (e.g., theophylline) have been used in children, but because of their many adverse effects and the better control afforded by newer agents, its use is reserved for patients who do not respond to other therapies. Topical steroid nasal decongestants may be used for symptom relief for nasal congestion but are not a regular part of asthma therapy in children.
A nursing instructor is discussing ways that the respiratory tract protects itself from bacteria and shares with the students that it is done in which ways? (Select all that apply.) A) Cough and sneeze reflex B) Surfactant in the alveoli C) Goblet cells D) Gas exchange in the alveoli E) Nasal cilia
Ans: A, C, E Feedback: Nasal hairs, mucus-producing goblet cells, cilia, the superficial blood supply of the upper respiratory tract, and the cough and sneeze reflexes all work to keep foreign substances from entering the lower respiratory tract. Surfactant and gas exchange in the alveoli are involved in the oxygenation process but are not involved in protecting the respiratory tract.
The nurse is caring for a patient who is scheduled to receive acetylcysteine because of an acetaminophen overdose. The nurse would notify the physician before administering the medication if the patient had which condition? (Select all that apply.) A) Bronchospasm B) Hypertension C) Nephrotic syndrome D) Peptic ulcer E) Esophageal varices
Ans: A, D, E Feedback: Before administration, assess for possible contraindications or cautions: any history or allergy to the prescribed drugs and the presence of bronchospasm, which are contraindications to the use of these drugs, as well as findings of peptic ulcer and esophageal varices, which would require careful monitoring and cautious use. Options B and C are not correct.
The nurse is caring for a patient with pneumonia. The nurse would expect to see which symptoms? (Select all that apply.) A) Difficulty breathing B) Urinary retention C) Rash D) Fever E) Oxygen saturation of 88%
Ans: A, D, E Feedback: Symptoms of patients with pneumonia include fever, difficulty breathing, fatigue, noisy breath sounds, and poor oxygenation. Urinary retention and rash are not usual symptoms of pneumonia.
The nurse is caring for a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The plan of care will focus on what patient problem? A) Pain B) Obstructed airway C) Activity intolerance D) Adverse effects of medication therapy
Ans: B Feedback: Asthma, emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) are pulmonary obstructive diseases.
A 29-year-old female patient has sinusitis, so the physician orders a topical nasal decongestant. What instructions should be given? A) Avoid becoming pregnant during decongestant therapy. B) Increase fluids to 2 L/d. C) Restrict fluids to 500 mL/d. D) Take the medication with meals.
Ans: B Feedback: Institute other measures to help relieve the discomfort of congestion (e.g., humidity, increased fluid intake, cool environment, avoidance of smoke-filled areas) as appropriate. The medication does not need to be taken with meals or to restrict fluids. It would be inappropriate to tell the patient to avoid becoming pregnant.
The nurse caring for a 38-year-old patient started on albuterol (Proventil) should advise the patient that he or she may experience what adverse effect? A) Polydipsia B) Tachycardia C) Hypotension D) Diarrhea
Ans: B Feedback: Adrenergic agents stimulate beta1 -adrenergic receptors in the heart as well as beta2 -adrenergic receptors in the lungs
The nurse is caring for a patient who is taking dextromethorphan for cough suppression. The nurse will assess this patient for hypotension if he also takes which other medication? A) Calcium-channel blockers B) Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors C) Beta-blockers D) Thiazide diuretics
Ans: B Feedback: Dextromethorphan should not be used in conjunction with MAO inhibitors because hypotension, fever, nausea, myoclonic jerks, and coma could occur. No known drugdrug interaction exists between dextromethorphan and calcium-channel blockers, beta-blockers, and thiazide diuretics.
The nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving acetylcysteine (Mucomyst) by face mask. What would be an appropriate nursing diagnosis? A) Impaired swallowing B) Risk for impaired skin integrity C) Risk for falls D) Sleep deprivation
Ans: B Feedback: A patient receiving acetylcysteine by face mask should have the residue wiped off the face mask and her face with plain water to prevent skin breakdown. The appropriate nursing diagnosis would be risk for impaired skin integrity. Acetylcysteine does not cause impaired swallowing, produce any CNS effects that could increase the risk for falls, or impair the patient's ability to sleep.
A patient is complaining of an inability to breathe nasally because of severe rhinitis. The nurse is aware that the nose plays what important role in breathing that is disrupted when the nasal passages are blocked? A) It decreases the number of pathogens inhaled. B) Inspired air is warmed and humidified. C) Carbon dioxide will not be inhaled. D) It simulates surfactant release from the alveoli.
Ans: B Feedback: Air usually moves into the body through the nose and into the nasal cavity. The nasal hairs catch and filter foreign substances that may be present in the inhaled air. The air is warmed and humidified as it passes by blood vessels close to the surface of the epithelial lining in the nasal cavity. The epithelial lining contains goblet cells that produce mucus. This mucus traps dust, microorganisms, pollen, and any other foreign substances.
The nurse is giving discharge instructions to a patient with an upper respiratory infection who has been advised to take an over-the-counter (OTC) topical nasal decongestant. The nurse advises the patient about what common adverse reaction to these medications? A) Diarrhea B) Rhinitis medicamentosa C) Rash D) Headache
Ans: B Feedback: An adverse effect that accompanies frequent or prolonged use of topical nasal decongestants is rebound congestion, technically called rhinitis medicamentosa. Other adverse reactions include disorientation, confusion, nausea, vomiting, fever, and dyspnea. Diarrhea, rash, and headache are not commonly associated with these drugs, however.
A 76-year-old man with asthma is being treated with an anticholinergic. What will the nurse be careful to assess for? A) Cardiac arrhythmias B) Prostatic hypertrophy C) Thyroid conditions D) Parkinsonism
Ans: B Feedback: Anticholinergics can produce urinary hesitancy and urinary retention, conditions that would aggravate the signs and symptoms of prostatic hypertrophy. Older patients given anti-cholinergics should be encouraged to empty the bladder before taking the drug. These drugs are used to treat parkinsonism. Thyroid conditions and cardiac arrhythmias are not cautions or contraindications to the use of these drugs. 9. A patient with chronic b
The nurse is developing the teaching portion of a care plan for a patient with asthma. What would be an important component for the nurse to emphasize? A) Smoking a half a pack of cigarettes weekly is allowable. B) Chronic inhalation of nonallergic inhaled irritants can trigger an attack. C) Minor respiratory infections are not treated. D) Activities of daily living (ADLs) should be completed in the waking hours
Ans: B Feedback: Asthma is characterized by reversible bronchospasm, inflammation, and hyperactive airways. The hyperactivity is triggered by allergens or nonallergic inhaled irritants or by factors such as exercise and emotions. The trigger causes an immediate release of histamine, which results in bronchospasm in about 10 minutes. The later response (i.e., 3 to 5 hours) is cytokine-mediated inflammation, mucus production, and edema contributing to obstruction. Patients with asthma should not smoke at all and even minor respiratory infections should be treated to prevent an exacerbation of asthma and ADLs should be completed whenever the patient feels able.
A patient has been prescribed a nasal steroid and asks the nurse what the most common reason that this medication is used to treat. What is the nurse's best response? A) Nasal steroids are only used to treat a sinus infection. B) Nasal steroids are used to treat allergic rhinitis. C) Nasal steroids are used for an infection in the adenoids. D) Nasal steroids are used for all acute upper respiratory infections
Ans: B Feedback: Because nasal steroids block the inflammatory response, their use is contraindicated in the presence of acute infections. The most common reason they are prescribed is for the treatment of allergic rhinitis or to relieve inflammation after the removal of nasal polyps. Nasal steroids are not used for a sinus infection, an infection in the adenoids, or any other acute upper respiratory infection.
A patient presents at the clinic with a dry nonproductive cough. The patient is diagnosed with bronchitis and it has been determined that assistance is needed in thinning the sputum so the cough can become productive. What does the nurse expect the physician will prescribe? A) Benzonatate (Tessalon) B) Guaifenesin (Mucinex) C) Dextromethorphan (Benylin) D) Hydrocodone (Hycodan)
Ans: B Feedback: Because this patient needs to cough up respiratory secretions, he would likely be prescribed guaifenesin. This drug is an expectorant that liquefies lower respiratory secretions by reducing their viscosity and so making it easier for a patient to cough them up. Benzonatate, dextromethorphan, and hydrocodone are antitussives and are given to suppress the cough reflex
The nursing instructor is discussing cystic fibrosis (CF) with his clinical group. What would the instructor cite as the hallmark pathology of CF? A) Alveolar mucous plugging, infection, and eventual bronchiectasis B) Bronchial mucous plugging, inflammation, and tissue damage C) Atelectasis, infection, and eventual chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) D) Bronchial mucous plugging, infection, and eventual chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Ans: B Feedback: CF results in the accumulation of copious amounts of very thick secretions in the lungs. Eventually, the secretions obstruct the airways, leading to destruction of the lung tissue. Mucous plugs occur in CF, but it is at the bronchial level, not the alveolar level. COPD is not an eventual outcome in this disease.
1. A nurse is discussing ways the body protects itself against infection. What are the microscopic, hairlike projections of the cell membrane found in the nasal cavity, which transport foreign substances toward the throat where it can be swallowed and kept away from the respiratory system? A) Goblet cells B) Cilia C) Alveolar sacs D) Sinuses
Ans: B Feedback: Cilia are found in the epithelial cells of the lining of the nasal cavity and are constantly in motion directing mucus and trapped substances down toward the throat. Goblet cells are found in the epithelial lining and produce mucus, which traps foreign substances. Alveolar sacs are located in the lower respiratory tract and are considered the functional units of the lung. Sinuses are air-filled passages through the skull, which open into the nasal cavity.
A patient comes to the clinic with symptoms as seen in a cold. What group of upper respiratory drugs causes local vasoconstriction, which decreases blood flow and shrinks swollen membranes to improve air flow? A) Antitussives B) Decongestants C) Expectorants D) Mucolytics
Ans: B Feedback: Decongestants cause local vasoconstriction that decreases blood flow to irritated and dilated capillaries of the mucous membranes lining the nasal passages and sinus cavities. This vasoconstriction leads to a shrinking of swollen membranes and opens clogged nasal passages promoting drainage of secretions and improved air flow. Antitussives either work directly on the medullary cough center of the brain or act as a local anesthetic on the respiratory passages blocking the effectiveness of the stretch receptors that stimulate a cough reflex. Expectorants liquefy lower respiratory tract secretions, reducing the viscosity of the secretions and so making it easier to cough them up. Mucolytics break down mucus to aid a person in coughing up thick tenacious secretions by separating cells that hold mucous material together.
The nursing instructor is discussing bronchodilators with a group of nursing students. The students understand the instruction when they identify what drug is most effective in treating acute bronchospasm? A) Ipratropium bromide (Atrovent) B) Epinephrine (Adrenalin) C) Cromolyn (Intal) D) Ephedrine
Ans: B Feedback: Epinephrine may be injected subcutaneously in an acute attack of bronchoconstriction, with therapeutic effects in 5 minutes that last 4 hours. It is considered the drug of choice for the treatment of acute bronchospasm.
What action by the patient would indicate that the patient understands how to use an inhaler? A) The patient inhales as soon as the inhaler enters his or her mouth. B) The patient holds his or her breath for several seconds after releasing the medication. C) The patient administers three doses of medication within a 1-minute time frame. D) The patient exhales as soon as he or she compresses the inhaler
Ans: B Feedback: Holding the breath prevents exhalation of medication still remaining in the mouth. The patient should inhale when the canister is compressed, not as soon as the inhaler enters his or her mouth. The patient should only administer one dose of medication at a time and the patient should wait to exhale until after the breath has been held as long as possible.
The nurse has provided health teaching for a 15-year-old boy newly diagnosed with asthma. What statement, made by the patient, indicates that he has a good understanding of the teaching the nurse has done regarding inhalers? A) I should hold my breath when administering a puff. B) The aerosol canister should be shaken well before using. C) I need to take three short quick breaths when I administer the inhaler. D) A second aerosol medication cannot be administered until 30 minutes after the first aerosol medication
Ans: B Feedback: Inhalers should be shaken well, immediately before each use. It would not be appropriate to teach the patient to hold his breath when administering a puff, to take three short quick puffs when administering the inhaler, or that a second aerosol medication should not be administered until 30 minutes after the first dose of aerosol medication.
A 39-year-old teacher with bronchitis has been up all night with intense coughing spasms and asks the nurse How is all this coughing related to my bronchitis? The nurse tells the patient that a cough is initiated by what? A) Irritation to receptors in the nasal cavity B) Irritation to receptors in the bronchi C) Irritation to receptors in the pharynx D) Irritation to receptors in the sinus cavities
Ans: B Feedback: Irritation to bronchial receptors will initiate a cough, which causes air to be pushed through the bronchial tree. Irritation to receptors in the nasal cavity, pharynx, and sinuses are more likely to initiate the sneeze reflex.
The nurse has admitted a patient (who takes ipratropium) to the respiratory unit with an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While writing a plan of care for this patient, what would be the most appropriate nursing diagnosis to use? A) Deficient knowledge regarding alternative therapy B) Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements C) Acute pain related to renal effects of the drug D) Disturbed thought processes related to central nervous system (CNS) effects
Ans: B Feedback: Nursing diagnoses related to drug therapy might include acute pain related to CNS, gastrointestinal (GI), or respiratory effects of the drug; imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements, related to dry mouth and GI upset; and deficient knowledge regarding drug therapy. Options A, C, and D are not correct.
29. The nurse is writing a care plan for a patient who has been prescribed a nasal steroid. What would be an appropriate nursing diagnosis for this patient? A) Disturbed sensory perception (kinesthetic) related to CNS effects B) Risk for injury related to suppression of inflammatory reaction C) Ineffective airway clearance related to bronchospasm D) Ineffective airway related to nasal obstruction
Ans: B Feedback: Nursing diagnoses related to drug therapy might include acute pain related to local effects of the drug, risk for injury related to suppression of inflammatory reaction, and deficient knowledge regarding drug therapy. Nursing diagnosis for this patient does not include disturbed sensory perception, ineffective airway clearance, or ineffective airway.
A nurse in the postanesthesia care unit is caring for a 77-year-old male patient after hip replacement surgery. While assessing the patient, the nurse notes crackles, dyspnea, cough, and changes in movement of the chest wall. The nurse would suspect the patient has developed what? A) Pneumonia B) Atelectasis C) Bronchitis D) Emphysema
Ans: B Feedback: Patients may present with crackles, dyspnea, fever, cough, hypoxia, and changes in chest wall movement. Treatment may involve clearing the airways, delivering oxygen, and assisting ventilation. In the case of pneumothorax, treatment would also involve insertion of a chest tube to restore the negative pressure to the space between the pleura
A nurse is caring for an 80-year-old patient with pneumonia. The most appropriate nursing diagnosis for this patient would be what? A) Dysfunctional ventilatory weaning response B) Impaired gas exchange C) Ineffective health maintenance D) Risk for delayed development
Ans: B Feedback: Pneumonia causes swelling, engorgement, and exudation of protective sera in the lower respiratory tract. The respiratory membrane is affected, resulting in decreased gas exchange.
The nurse in the clinic is caring for a patient who has seasonal rhinitis and the patient wants to know what causes this to occur. What is the nurse's best response? A) You are experiencing symptoms because bacteria have entered the nose and caused an infection. B) Your upper airways are experiencing an inflammatory response to an inhaled antigen that is causing you to have sneezing and watery eyes. C) Your sympathetic nervous system is responding to an acute amount of stress in your life causing you to have nasal congestion. D) Your runny nose and sneezing have occurred because a portion of your lung has collapsed.
Ans: B Feedback: Seasonal rhinitis usually occurs when the upper airways become inflamed because of the body's response to an inhaled antigen. The lungs do not collapse and the sympathetic system's response to stress usually opens the airways and does not cause inflammation. Bacteria entering the nose do not cause inflammation of the rest of the upper airways.
While discussing gas exchange, the instructor would tell the students that oxygen and carbon dioxide enter and leave the body by what method? A) Osmosis B) Diffusion C) Passive transport D) Active transport
Ans: B Feedback: The alveolar sac holds the gas, allowing needed oxygen to diffuse across the respiratory membrane into the the capillary, whereas carbon dioxide, which is more abundant in the capillary blood, diffuses across the membrane and enters the alveolar sac to be expired.
A patient is admitted with an asthma attack caused by an allergic reaction to a medication. The nurse is aware that this severe allergic response is triggered by the immediate release of what? A) Antihistamine B) Histamine C) Epinephrine D) Surfactant
Ans: B Feedback: Asthma is characterized by reversible bronchospasm, inflammation, and hyperactive airways. The hyperactivity is triggered by allergens or nonallergic inhaled irritants or by factors such as exercise and emotions. The trigger causes an immediate release of histamine, which results in bronchospasm in about 10 minutes.
The nurse is admitting a patient with an obstructive respiratory disorder. The nurse knows this includes which disorders? (Select all that apply.) A) Atelectasis B) Cystic fibrosis C) Asthma D) Pneumonia E) Bronchiectasis
Ans: B, C Feedback: Obstructive disorders of the lower respiratory tract include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, and respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Atelectasis is a collapse of once-expanded alveoli. Pneumonia is an infection of the lower respiratory tract. Bronchiectasis is a disorder of chronic infection and inflammation of the bronchial passages.
The nursing instructor is discussing the use of sympathomimetics in patients who have acute bronchospasm. The instructor shares with the students that this classification of drugs is contraindicated or only used with great caution in patients with what disorders? (Select all that apply.) A) Hypothyroidism B) Cardiac disease C) Kidney disease D) Diabetes mellitus E) Peripheral vascular disease
Ans: B, D, E Feedback: Before administering a sympathomimetic the nurse should assess for possible contraindications or cautions that include any known allergies to any drug in this class, cigarette use, cardiac disease, vascular disease, arrhythmias, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism. Sympathomimetics have no known adverse effects in hypothyroidism or kidney disease.
A nurse is discussing cystic fibrosis (CF) with a couple who have just given birth to an infant with this disorder. The nurse explains that the respiratory component of this disease is caused by what? A) Bronchospasm B) Infection C) Excessive respiratory tract secretions D) Chemical irritation of the respiratory tract
Ans: C Feedback: CF is a hereditary disease involving the exocrine glands of the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and reproductive tracts. CF results in the accumulation of copious amounts of very thick secretions in the lungs
The nursing instructor is discussing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) with her clinical group. What signs and symptoms would the instructor present to the students as characteristic of ARDS? A) Anoxia B) Hypocapnia C) Hypoxia D) Hypercapnia
Ans: C Feedback: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by progressive loss of lung compliance and increasing hypoxia. Anoxia is a lack of oxygen to the body. ARDS will cause decreased oxygen (hypoxia).
What would be the nurse's best response if a patient calls the clinic and reports that he has had a persistent cough for 2 weeks and asks the nurse for a recommendation for a cough medicine? A) Look for dextromethorphan as an ingredient in any OTC cough preparation. B) The doctor could order an antihistamine, which might dry up your secretions and stop the cough. C) You should come to the clinic to be evaluated. A cough that lasts that long might be an indication of an underlying medical problem. D) Drink a lot of fluids and take aspirin, which should reduce the irritation in your throat.
Ans: C Feedback: A cough that has persisted for 2 weeks could be indicative of an underlying medical condition that should be addressed before treating the cough. The patient should be asked to come in for an evaluation. Dextromethorphan could help stop the cough, but suppressing the cough might not be in the patient's best interest. Drying the mucosa with an antihistamine could aggravate the cough. Aspirin would not be indicated for relieving throat irritation
A student asks the pharmacy instructor where air exchange takes place in the human body. What would be the instructor's best response? A) Air exchange in the human body takes place in the trachea. B) Air exchange in the human body takes place in the bronchioles. C) Air exchange in the human body takes place in the alveoli. D) Air exchange in the human body takes place in the nares.
Ans: C Feedback: Gas exchange occurs across the respiratory membrane in the alveolar sac. It does not occur in the bronchioles, the trachea, or the nares.
The pharmacology instructor questions the students as to which classification of drugs is commonly found in over-the-counter (OTC) combination cold medications? A) Stimulants B) Opioids C) Oral decongestants D) Antitussives
Ans: C Feedback: Oral decongestants are found in many OTC cold and flu preparations so that care must be taken to avoid inadvertent overdose when more than one such drug is used. Opioids are only available by prescription; stimulants and antitussives are not generally found in OTC combination cold medications.
A patient asks the nurse what causes a cold. The nurse would tell the patient that the common cold is most often caused by which type of microorganism? A) Gram-positive bacteria B) Gram-negative bacteria C) Virus D) Fungus
Ans: C Feedback: Various viruses cause the common cold. These viruses invade the tissues of the upper respiratory tract, initiating the release of histamine and prostaglandins and causing an inflammatory response. Bacteria and fungi can cause a respiratory infection but the disorder commonly known as a cold is caused by a virus.
A nurse is caring for a 45-year-old patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The nurse is aware that this disease is characterized by what? A) Accumulation of copious amounts of very thick secretions in the lungs B) Loss of elastic tissue of the lungs and destruction of alveolar walls C) Progressive loss of lung compliance and increasing hypoxia D) Reversible bronchospasm, inflammation, and hyperactive airways
Ans: C Feedback: ARDS is characterized by progressive loss of lung compliance and increasing hypoxia and occurs as a result of a severe insult to the body. Accumulation of copious amounts of thick secretions in the lungs is associated with cystic fibrosis. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by loss of the elastic tissue of the lung, destruction of alveolar walls, and hyperinflation with tendency to collapse with expiration. Reversible bronchospasm, inflammation, and hyperactive airways are characteristics of asthma.
The nurse is caring for a patient who does not have a respiratory disorder but has been prescribed acetylcysteine. What is an additional indication for acetylcysteine (Mucomyst)? A) Conversion of cardiac dysrhythmias B) Treatment of peptic ulcer disease C) Antidote for acetaminophen poisoning D) Decreased bronchospasm
Ans: C Feedback: Acetylcysteine is used orally to protect liver cells from being damaged during episodes of acetaminophen toxicity because it normalizes hepatic glutathione levels and binds with a reactive hepatotoxic metabolite of acetaminophen. Acetylcysteine is not used for the conversion of cardiac dysrhythmias, for treatment of peptic ulcer disease, or for decreasing bronchospasm.
The nurse is writing a plan of care for a patient newly admitted to the floor with an asthma attack that occurred while exercising. What would be the most appropriate intervention for this patient? A) Assist patients with moderate to severe asthma in obtaining a home nebulizer unit B) Try to prevent or reduce panic, which may initiate bronchospasm C) Teach patient to use an inhaler before exercising D) Monitor peak flow rates, especially in children
Ans: C Feedback: Teach patient who use one of these drugs for exercise-induced asthma to use it 30 to 60 minutes before exercising to ensure peak therapeutic effects when they are needed. The most important intervention would be to use a bronchodilator as prophylaxis for a patient with exercise-induced asthma
The nurse is teaching a group of patients with allergic rhinitis about the use of their medications. What would be the most essential information to give these patients about preventing possible drug interactions? A) Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are safe to use. B) Use only one pharmacy so the pharmacist can check drug interactions. C) Read drug labels before taking OTC medications. D) Ask the pharmacy tech for assistance in selecting an OTC medication.
Ans: C Feedback: Teach patients to read the OTC labels to avoid inadvertent overdose. It would be inappropriate to teach the patient to use only one pharmacy for OTC medications. OTC medications are generally safe to use if used correctly. Asking the pharmacy tech for help in selecting an OTC medication is appropriate but not the most essential information to give the patients.
The nursing instructor is teaching the lab students the best position for the administration of nasal sprays. What position would the instructor teach the students? A) Supine B) Semi-Fowler's C) High Fowler's D) Side-lying
Ans: C Feedback: Teach the patient to sit upright and press a finger over one nostril to close it. This body position is important to prevent excessive amounts of the medication running down the back of the throat. It needs to be in direct contact with the greatest amount of nasal mucosa and the high Fowler's position provides that.
An inhaled sympathomimetic drug has been ordered for a teenage athlete who has exercise-induced asthma. What should the patient be instructed to do? A) Use the inhaler every day at the same time each day. B) Use the inhaler as soon as the symptoms start. C) Use the inhaler 30 to 60 minutes before exercising to ensure peak therapeutic levels when needed. D) Use the inhaler 2 to 3 hours before exercising to ensure peak effectiveness.
Ans: C Feedback: Teaching a patient about using an inhaled sympathomimetic for management of exercise-induced asthma should include instructions to use the inhaler 30 to 60 minutes before exercising to ensure therapeutic levels when needed. The inhaler would not be used daily and waiting until symptoms occur will be too late for prevention. Options B and D are not correct.
A patient has an important presentation to make in 4 hours and he needs relief from the congestion of seasonal rhinitis. The patient calls the nurse, explains the situation, and tells the nurse that he cannot afford to be drowsy. Which antihistamine would be a good choice for this patient? A) Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) B) Dexchlorpheniramine (Polaramine) C) Loratadine (Claritin) D) Hydroxyzine (Atarax)
Ans: C Feedback: The first-generation antihistamines, including diphenhydramine, dexchlorpheniramine, and hydroxyzine, are associated with drowsiness. Loratadine is one of the second-generation antihistamines, which have fewer anticholinergic effects and are less likely to cause drowsiness.
The nursing instructor is discussing the need for lubrication of the alveoli for effective gas exchange and is produced by type II cells of the alveoli. The students know that what substance is produced by type II cells of the alveoli? A) Erythrocytes B) Lymphatic fluid C) Surfactant D) Pleural fluid
Ans: C Feedback: Type II cells produce surfactant. Erythrocytes are made in the bone marrow. Lymphatic fluid is produced by lymph glands; pleural fluid is secreted by cells in the pleural cavity.
The nurse is teaching a class about common upper respiratory infections to parents of preschoolers. The parents correctly respond that which are examples of upper respiratory infections? (Select all that apply.) A) Bronchitis B) Asthma C) Pharyngitis D) Sinusitis E) Laryngitis
Ans: C, D, E Feedback: Upper respiratory infections include pharyngitis, sinusitis, and laryngitis. Asthma and bronchitis are examples of lower respiratory disorders.
A woman has just given birth to a premature infant. The mother asks why the infant is having such a hard time breathing. The nurse explains that the infant's alveoli are unable to stay open. What is the infant lacking that is necessary for correct functioning of the alveoli? A) Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) B) Histamine C) Serotonin D) Surfactant
Ans: D Feedback: Surfactant is a lipoprotein that decreases the surface tension in the sac and prevents alveolar collapse. ATP, histamine, and serotonin are released from mast cells throughout the airway to ensure a quick and intense inflammatory reaction to any cell injury, which may lead to a respiratory infection.
A patient visits the clinic and is diagnosed with acute sinusitis. To promote sinus drainage, what medication might be ordered? A) Topical nasal steroid decongestants B) First-generation antihistamines C) Second-generation antihistamines D) Topical decongestants
Ans: D Feedback: Topical decongestants are sympathomimetics, meaning that they imitate the effects of the sympathetic nervous system to cause vasoconstriction, leading to decreased edema and reduced inflammation of the nasal membranes. They are available as nasal sprays that are used to relieve the discomfort of nasal congestion that accompanies the common cold, sinusitis, and allergic rhinitis. Topical nasal steroid decongestants are used for the treatment of allergic rhinitis and to relieve inflammation after the removal of nasal polyps. First- and second-generation antihistamines are not ordered for sinusitis.
The nursing instructor is discussing the administration of nasal spray with the nursing students. What information is most important to include in this discussion? A) Finish the bottle of nasal spray to clear the infection effectively. B) Nasal spray can be shared between family members only. C) Administer the nasal spray in a prone position. D) Overuse of nasal spray may cause rebound congestion.
Ans: D Feedback: An adverse effect that accompanies frequent or prolonged use of decongestants is rebound vasodilation, clinically called rhinitis medicamentosa. The reflex reaction to vasoconstriction is a rebound vasodilation, which often leads to prolonged overuse of decongestants. The patient should hold his or her head back for maximum distribution of the spray. Only an individual patient should use the bottle of medication.
The nurse is caring for a patient who is taking an adrenergic bronchodilator. In what disease process should adrenergic bronchodilators be used cautiously? A) Liver failure B) Renal failure C) Respiratory failure D) Heart failure
Ans: D Feedback: Adrenergic drugs cause cardiac stimulation. Patients with liver failure, renal failure, or respiratory failure do not need to use adrenergic bronchodilators cautiously.
What disorders would the pharmacology instructor tell the nursing students may be exacerbated by the use of nasal decongestants? A) Pneumonia B) Rheumatoid arthritis C) Acid reflux D) Hypothyroidism
Ans: D Feedback: Assess for possible contraindications or cautions; any history of allergy to the drug or a component of the drug vehicle; glaucoma, hypertension, diabetes, thyroid disease, coronary disease, and prostate problems, all of which could be exacerbated by the sympathomimetic effects. Nasal decongestants do not appear to exacerbate pneumonia, rheumatoid arthritis, or acid reflux.
The pharmacology instructor is explaining the difference between bronchodilators and antiinflammatory drugs. How does an anti-inflammatory drug reduce bronchoconstriction? A) Increases ability to metabolize medication B) Decreases formation of mucus secretions C) Increases reactivity to medication D) By decreasing airway hyperreactivity to various stimuli
Ans: D Feedback: Bronchodilators, or antiasthmatics, are medications used to facilitate respirations by dilating the airways. They are helpful in symptomatic relief or prevention of bronchial asthma and for bronchospasm associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Reducing inflammation prevents and reduces bronchoconstriction by decreasing airway hyperreactivity to various stimuli that decreases mucosal edema and formation of mucus secretions that narrow airways
The clinic nurse is caring for a patient who has just been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The patient asks the nurse what they could have done to minimize the risk of contracting this disease. What would be the nurse's best answer? A) The most important risk factor for COPD is inadequate nutrition. B) The most important risk factor for COPD is regular exercise. C) The most important risk factor for COPD is exposure to dust and pollen. D) The most important risk factor for COPD is cigarette smoking.
Ans: D Feedback: COPD is a permanent, chronic obstruction of airways, often related to cigarette smoking. Inadequate nutrition, regular exercise, and exposure to dust and pollen are not risk factors for COPD.
While assessing a new patient on the unit, the nurse notes the following: productive cough, respiratory rate of 22, oxygen saturation of 90%, and increased secretions. The patient has a 20-year history of smoking 1.5 packs of cigarettes daily. What chronic condition might this patient have? A) Pneumonia B) Cystic fibrosis C) Pleural effusion D) Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Ans: D Feedback: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a permanent, chronic obstruction of airways, often related to cigarette smoking. It is caused by two related disorders, emphysema and chronic bronchitis, both of which result in airflow obstruction on expiration, as well as overinflation of the lungs and poor gas exchange. Emphysema is characterized by loss of the elastic tissue of the lungs, destruction of alveolar walls, and a resultant alveolar hyperinflation with a tendency to collapse with expiration. Chronic bronchitis is a permanent inflammation of the airways with mucus secretion, edema, and poor inflammatory defenses. Characteristics of both disorders often are present in the person with COPD.
What statement by a 61-year-old patient who is to take an antitussive with codeine indicates that the nurse's teaching has been effective? A) I will take this medication anytime I start to cough. B) This medication may make me anxious and nervous. C) I should call the physician if I develop nausea, diarrhea, or stomach cramps while taking this medication. D) This medication can cause drowsiness, so I will avoid driving or using power equipment while I take it
Ans: D Feedback: Codeine is a CNS depressant and should not be combined with driving or heavy machinery activities. Antitussives are not intended to be taken with every coughing episode because the patient may overdose on the medication. The medication usually makes the patient drowsy rather than nervous and anxious. Codeine may cause GI upset, although it is usually constipating; some patients may complain of nausea and stomach distress while taking this medication.
What statement by the patient leads the nurse to believe that he needs additional instruction regarding his nasal decongestant? A) I will blow my nose before instilling the nasal spray. B) I will report any dizziness, drowsiness, or rapid pulse. C) I will drink 2,000 to 3,000 mL of fluid daily. D) I will use it only when I have nasal discharge.
Ans: D Feedback: Decongestants decrease overproduction of secretions by causing local vasoconstriction to the upperrespiratory tract (See Table 54.2). This vasoconstriction leads to a shrinking of swollen mucous membranes and tends to open clogged nasal passages, providing relief from the discomfort of a blocked nose and promoting drainage of secretions and improved airflow. The patient must understand proper administration, which includes clearing the nasal passages before inhaling the medication and increasing fluid intake and reporting adverse effects. The medication must be used on a regular basis to be effective. Option B is a distracter.
A patient, newly diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), calls the clinic and asks the nurse to explain what the newly prescribed medications are for. What would be the most appropriate response by the nurse? A) The medications that have been ordered for you are what the physician thinks will help you the most. B) The medications that have been ordered for you are to help you breathe easier. C) The medications that have been ordered for you are designed to work together to help you feel better. D) The medications that have been ordered for you are to help relieve the inflammation and promote dilation of the bronchi.
Ans: D Feedback: Drug treatment of asthma and COPD aims to relieve inflammation and promote bronchial dilation. The other options do not give the patient information about the use of these new medications.
A patient presents to the emergency department (ED) having an acute asthma attack. An ED physician has ordered a sympathomimetic (epinephrine). The nurse expects what as the therapeutic effect of this drug? A) Decrease the inflammatory response in the airways B) Reduce the surface tension within the alveoli allowing for gas exchange C) Inhibit the release of histamine and slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRSA) to prevent the allergic asthmatic response D) Cause dilation of the bronchi with increased rate and depth of respiration
Ans: D Feedback: Epinephrine will cause the bronchi to dilate and also cause the rate and depth of respiration to increase. Inhaled steroids decrease the inflammatory response and lung surfactants reduce the surface tension within the alveoli. Mast cell stabilizers inhibit the release of histamine and SRSA to prevent the allergic response. Options A, B, and C are not correct.
A patient returns to the unit after thoracic surgery with a water-sealed chest drainage system. What should the nurse instruct the patient and the family that this drainage system is used for? A) Maintaining positive chest wall pressure B) Monitoring pleural fluid C) Providing positive intrathoracic pressure D) Re-expanding the lung and restoring the negative pressure to the space between the pleura
Ans: D Feedback: In the case of a pneumothorax, treatment would involve insertion of a chest tube to restore the negative pressure to the space between the pleura. A water-sealed chest drainage system does not maintain positive chest wall pressure, monitor pleural fluid, or provide positive intrathoracic pressure.
A premature newborn is being treated for respiratory distress syndrome. The nurse teaches the parents about what adverse effect that can occur with the use of lung surfactants? A) Kidney dysfunction B) Cardiac arrhythmias C) High fever D) Collapsed lung
Ans: D Feedback: Lung surfactants used therapeutically can cause many adverse effects including pneumothorax (collapsed lung), hypotension, pulmonary leak, hyperbilirubinemia, and sepsis. Other adverse effects may occur in the infant related to the degree of immaturity of the child's system and may not be related to the drug therapy. Options A, B, and C are not correct.
The nurse is providing health teaching to a newly diagnosed asthmatic patient. The patient has been prescribed theophylline. What is contraindicated with the use of this drug? A) Using insulin B) Taking anti-inflammatory drugs C) Exercising D) Smoking cigarettes
Ans: D Feedback: Nicotine increases the metabolism of xanthines in the liver so that xanthine dosage must be increased in patients who continue to smoke while using xanthines. In addition, extreme caution must be used if the patient decides to decrease or discontinue smoking because severe xanthine toxicity can occur
A 70-year-old man is being treated for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with theophylline (Theo-Dur). What will be a priority assessment by the nurse? A) Ingestion of fatty foods B) Weight C) Activity level D) Use of nicotine
Ans: D Feedback: Nutritional status, weight, and activity level would be important for a nurse to know about a COPD patient. However, it would be most important for the nurse to know whether the patient smokes or uses tobacco in other ways or smoking cessation methods that involve nicotine. Nicotine increases the metabolism of theophyllines; the dosage may need to be increased to produce a therapeutic effect
The nursing instructor is teaching a class on respiratory disorders and asks the students What condition is a result of the upper airways response to pollen, mold, or dust? A) Cystic fibrosis B) Adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) C) Atelectasis D) Seasonal rhinitis
Ans: D Feedback: Seasonal rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal cavity; it occurs when the upper airways respond to a specific antigen such as pollen, mold, or dust. Cystic fibrosis, atelectasis, and ARDS are not associated with an allergic response
The nurse is caring for a patient who suffered a head injury and is now having difficulty breathing. The nurse knows that this patient may have injured what part of the central nervous system? A) Cerebral cortex B) Cerebellum C) Hypothalamus D) Medulla oblongata
Ans: D Feedback: The act of breathing is controlled by the medulla, which depends on a functioning muscular system and a balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. The cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and hypothalamus are not involved with this process.
A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) presents at the emergency department in acute respiratory distress. The patient's family tells the nurse that the patient's problems began right after the patient took his or her first dose of ipratropium (Atrovent). What would the nurse suspect is the problem? A) An allergy to milk B) Overexertion by the patient C) Patient not taking the medications correctly D) An allergy to soy products
Ans: D Feedback: The use of ipratropium or tiotropium is contraindicated in the presence of known allergy to the drug or to soy products or peanuts (the vehicle used to make ipratropium an aerosol contains a protein associated with peanut allergies) to prevent hypersensitivity reactions.
A patient tells the nurse that a friend has recommended the use of caffeine to treat the patient's asthma. The nurse counsels the patient to begin treatment immediately with the prescribed medication for what reason? A) Caffeine can aggravate the drugs used to treat asthma. B) Most natural products are less toxic or more potent than traditional asthma medications. C) Natural products decrease the adverse effects associated with adrenergic bronchodilators. D) Delays in appropriate treatment can have serious, even fatal, consequences.
Ans: D Feedback: The xanthines, including caffeine and theophylline, come from a variety of naturally occurring sources. These drugs were formerly the main treatment choices for asthma and bronchospasm. However, because they have a relatively narrow margin of safety, and they interact with many other drugs, they are no longer considered the first-choice bronchodilators. Delays in appropriate treatment can have serious, even fatal, consequences
