Cardiac Medications
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When teaching the patient about the signs and symptoms of cardiac glycoside toxicity, the nurse should alert the patient to watch for:
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Difficulty in hearing
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Flickering lights or halos/ Visual changes
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Dizziness when standing up
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Increased urine output
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Cardiac medication use,action,dosage, patient teaching, points to remember,trade/generic names,administration and adverse effects.
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- 2.
During assessment of a patient who is receiving digoxin, which finding would indicate an increased possiblility of toxicity?
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Apical pulse rate of 60 bpm
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Digoxin level of 1.5
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Serum potassium level of 2.0
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Serum potassium level of 4.8
Correct Answer
A. Serum potassium level of 2.0Explanation
A low serum potassium level (2.0) indicates an increased possibility of digoxin toxicity. Digoxin and potassium have a reciprocal relationship, meaning that low potassium levels can increase the toxic effects of digoxin. Digoxin toxicity can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, and cardiac arrhythmias. Monitoring and maintaining appropriate potassium levels is important in patients receiving digoxin to prevent toxicity. A serum potassium level of 4.8 is within the normal range and would not indicate an increased possibility of toxicity.Rate this question:
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- 3.
When monitoring a patient who is receiving an IV infusion of inamrinone, the nurse will look for which adverse effect?
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Thrombocytopenia
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Proteinuria
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Anemia
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Decreased BUN and creatinine levels
Correct Answer
A. ThrombocytopeniaExplanation
Thrombocytopenia is a potential adverse effect of inamrinone, an IV infusion medication. Thrombocytopenia refers to a low platelet count, which can lead to increased bleeding and bruising. Monitoring for this adverse effect is important to ensure the safety of the patient receiving the medication. Proteinuria refers to the presence of excess protein in the urine and is not directly associated with inamrinone. Anemia refers to a low red blood cell count and decreased BUN and creatinine levels are not adverse effects of inamrinone.Rate this question:
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- 4.
When a patient is experiencing digitlalis toxicity, in which of the following situations would it be appropriate to treat with digoxin immune Fab(Digibind)?
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Hypokalemia
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Hyperkalemia
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Apical heart rate of 60 bpm
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Supraventricular dysrhythmias
Correct Answer
A. HyperkalemiaExplanation
When a patient is experiencing digitlalis toxicity, it would be appropriate to treat with digoxin immune Fab (Digibind) in the case of hyperkalemia. Digoxin immune Fab is an antidote used to treat severe or life-threatening digitalis toxicity, which can occur when there is an excessive amount of digoxin in the body. Hyperkalemia, or high levels of potassium in the blood, can worsen the toxicity of digoxin. Therefore, administering Digibind can help remove the excess digoxin from the body and alleviate the symptoms of toxicity.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Before beginning oral digoxin therapy, the nurse would note that which of the gollowing drugs would cause a decrease in the absorption of the digoxin if the two are taken together?
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Loop diuretics
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Antidepressants
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Potassium
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Antidiarrheals
Correct Answer
A. AntidiarrhealsExplanation
Antidiarrheals would cause a decrease in the absorption of digoxin if taken together. This is because antidiarrheals, such as loperamide, can slow down the movement of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to a decrease in the absorption of medications. Digoxin is primarily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, so if the absorption is slowed down by antidiarrheals, the effectiveness of digoxin may be reduced. It is important for the nurse to be aware of this interaction and consider adjusting the timing of administration or monitoring the patient closely for any signs of digoxin toxicity.Rate this question:
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- 6.
A patient with a rapid, irregualr heart rhythm is being treated in the ER with adenosine. During administration of this drug, the nurse should be prepared to monitor the patient for which effect?
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Nausea and vomiting
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Transitory asystole
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Muscle tetany
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Hypertension
Correct Answer
A. Transitory asystoleExplanation
During the administration of adenosine, the nurse should be prepared to monitor the patient for transitory asystole. Adenosine is a medication used to treat rapid, irregular heart rhythms such as supraventricular tachycardia. It works by slowing down the electrical conduction in the heart, which can temporarily stop the heart's electrical activity, leading to a brief period of asystole (no heartbeat). This effect is expected and is usually followed by the heart resuming a normal rhythm. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to closely monitor the patient's heart rhythm during adenosine administration.Rate this question:
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- 7.
When assessing a patient who has been taking amiodarone for 6 months, which adverse reaction might the nurse identify?
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Glycosuria
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Dysphagia
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Photophobia
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Urticaria
Correct Answer
A. PhotophobiaExplanation
The nurse might identify photophobia as an adverse reaction in a patient who has been taking amiodarone for 6 months. Photophobia refers to an abnormal sensitivity to light, and it can be a side effect of amiodarone. This adverse reaction can cause discomfort and difficulty in tolerating bright lights or sunlight. It is important for the nurse to assess and address this symptom in order to provide appropriate care and support to the patient.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The nurse is assessing a patient who has been taking quinidine and asks about adverse effects. Adverse effects associated with the use of this drug include which of the following?
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Muscle pain
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Tinnitus
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Chest pain
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Excessive thirst
Correct Answer
A. TinnitusExplanation
Tinnitus is a known adverse effect associated with the use of quinidine. Tinnitus refers to a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. This side effect can occur due to the ototoxicity of quinidine, which means it can cause damage to the structures of the inner ear responsible for hearing. Therefore, patients taking quinidine should be monitored for the development of tinnitus as it may indicate potential harm to their hearing.Rate this question:
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- 9.
A patient calls the family parctice office to report that he has seen his pills in his stools when he has a bowel movement What should be the nurse's response:
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The pills are not being digested properly. You should be taking then on an empty stomach
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The pills are not being digested properly. You should be taing them with food
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What youare seeing is the waxy matrix that contained the medication, but the drug has been absorbed.
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This indicates that you are not tolerating this medication and will need to switch to a different brand
Correct Answer
A. What youare seeing is the waxy matrix that contained the medication, but the drug has been absorbed.Explanation
The nurse should explain that what the patient is seeing in their stools is the waxy matrix that contained the medication. This indicates that the drug has been absorbed by the body.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which condition would be a caution for the use of the class 1 antidysrhythmic?
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Tachycardia
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Hypertension
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Ventricular dysrhythmias
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Renal dysfunction
Correct Answer
A. Renal dysfunctionExplanation
Renal dysfunction would be a caution for the use of the class 1 antidysrhythmic because these medications are primarily eliminated through the kidneys. If a patient has impaired renal function, their ability to clear the drug from their system may be compromised, leading to an increased risk of drug accumulation and potential toxicity. Therefore, caution should be exercised when prescribing class 1 antidysrhythmics to patients with renal dysfunction to avoid adverse effects.Rate this question:
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- 11.
A patient has a new prescription for transdermal nitroglycerin patches. The nurse teaches the patient that these patches are most appropriately used for which of the following?
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To relieve exertional angina
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Tp prevent palpatations
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To prevent the occurrence of angina
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To reduce the severity of anginal episodes
Correct Answer
A. To prevent the occurrence of anginaExplanation
Transdermal nitroglycerin patches are most appropriately used to prevent the occurrence of angina. Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator that helps to relax and widen the blood vessels, improving blood flow to the heart. By applying the patch regularly, the medication is continuously absorbed through the skin, providing a steady release of nitroglycerin to prevent angina attacks from occurring. This is different from using nitroglycerin sublingual tablets or sprays, which are used to relieve acute episodes of angina.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which statement by the patient reflects the need for additional patient education about the CCB diltiazem(Cardizem)?
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I can take this drug to stop acute anginal attacks
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I understand that food and antacids alter the absorption of this oral drug
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Whenn the long-acting forms are taken, the drug cannot be crushed
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This drug may cause my blood pressure to drop, so I should be careful when getting up
Correct Answer
A. I can take this drug to stop acute anginal attacksExplanation
The statement "I can take this drug to stop acute anginal attacks" reflects a need for additional patient education about the CCB diltiazem (Cardizem) because diltiazem is not typically used to stop acute anginal attacks. Diltiazem is primarily used for the long-term management and prevention of angina, rather than for immediate relief of symptoms during an attack. Therefore, the patient should be educated about the appropriate use of diltiazem and the need for other medications, such as nitroglycerin, to manage acute anginal attacks.Rate this question:
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- 13.
While assessing a patient with angina who is to start Beta Blocker therapy, the nurse is aware that the presence of which conition may be a problem if these drugs are used:
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Hypertension
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Essential tremors
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Exertional angina
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Asthma
Correct Answer
A. AsthmaExplanation
Asthma may be a problem if Beta Blocker therapy is used because these drugs can cause bronchospasms and worsen respiratory symptoms in patients with asthma. Beta blockers block the beta receptors in the lungs, which can lead to constriction of the airways and difficulty breathing. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to assess the patient for asthma before starting Beta Blocker therapy to avoid exacerbation of respiratory symptoms.Rate this question:
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- 14.
A 68 year old man has been taking the nitrate isosorbide dinitrate for 2 years for angina. He recently has been experiencing erectile dysfunction and wants a prescription for sildenafil(Viagra). Which response would the nurse most likely hear from the prescriber?
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He will have to be switched to isosorbide mononitrate if he wants take sildenafil
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Taking sildenafil with the nitrate may result in severe hypotension
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I'll write a prescription, but if he uses it, he needs to stop taking the isosorbide for one dose
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These drugs are compatible with each other, and so I'll write a prescription
Correct Answer
A. Taking sildenafil with the nitrate may result in severe hypotensionExplanation
Taking sildenafil with nitrate medications, such as isosorbide dinitrate, can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure, leading to severe hypotension. Therefore, the prescriber is most likely to warn against taking sildenafil while continuing to use isosorbide dinitrate.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which of the following adverse effects is of most concern for the older adult patient taking antihypertensive drugs
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Dry mouth
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Hypotension
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Restlessness
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Constipation
Correct Answer
A. HypotensionExplanation
Hypotension is the most concerning adverse effect for older adult patients taking antihypertensive drugs. Older adults are more susceptible to experiencing drops in blood pressure, which can lead to dizziness, falls, and other complications. Hypotension can be particularly dangerous for older adults as it can increase the risk of cardiovascular events and may also exacerbate other medical conditions. Therefore, monitoring blood pressure regularly and adjusting medication dosages are crucial to prevent hypotension in this population.Rate this question:
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- 16.
When giving antihypertensive drugs, the nurse must consider giving the first dose at bedtime for which of the following classes of drugs?
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Alpha blockers .
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Diuretics .
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ACE inhibitors
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Vasodilators
Correct Answer
A. Alpha blockers .Explanation
Alpha blockers are a class of antihypertensive drugs that work by blocking the action of certain nerve impulses, which relaxes the blood vessels and allows blood to flow more easily. Giving the first dose at bedtime helps to minimize the side effects of alpha blockers, such as dizziness and orthostatic hypotension, which can be more pronounced when a person is upright. By taking the medication at bedtime, the patient can sleep through the initial side effects and reduce the risk of falls or accidents.Rate this question:
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- 17.
A 56 year old man started atihypertensive drug therapy 3 months earlier and is in the office for a follow-up visit. While the nurse iis taking his blood pressure, he informs the nurse that he has had some preoblems with sexual intercouse. Which of the following would be the most appropriate response by the nurse:
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Not to worry. Tolerance will develop.
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The physician can work with you on changing the dose or drug
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Sexual dysfunction happens with this therapy, and you must lean to accept it
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This is an unusual occurrence, but i is important to stay on your medications
Correct Answer
A. The physician can work with you on changing the dose or drugExplanation
The nurse's most appropriate response would be to suggest that the physician can work with the patient on changing the dose or drug. This response acknowledges the patient's concern and offers a potential solution by involving the physician in adjusting the medication regimen. It shows empathy towards the patient's problem and offers a proactive approach to address the issue.Rate this question:
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- 18.
When a patient is being taught abouut the potential adverse effects of an ACE inhibitor, which of the following should be mentioned as possibley occurring when this drug is taken to treat hypertension
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Hypokalemia
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Nausea
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Dry, nonproductive cough
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Sedation
Correct Answer
A. Dry, nonproductive coughExplanation
When a patient is being taught about the potential adverse effects of an ACE inhibitor, it is important to mention that a dry, nonproductive cough can occur when this drug is taken to treat hypertension. This is a common side effect of ACE inhibitors and is caused by the accumulation of bradykinin, a substance that is normally broken down by ACE. The cough can be bothersome, but it is usually not serious and can be managed by switching to a different class of antihypertensive medication.Rate this question:
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- 19.
When applying a nitro patch it should placed on
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Non hairy part of the chest
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Thigh
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Upper back
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Buttocks
Correct Answer
A. Non hairy part of the chestExplanation
The correct answer is the non-hairy part of the chest. This is because the nitro patch needs to be applied to a clean and dry area of skin that is free from hair. The chest is a common location for applying nitro patches as it provides good absorption of the medication into the bloodstream. Placing it on the non-hairy part of the chest ensures that the patch adheres properly and allows for optimal delivery of the medication.Rate this question:
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- 20.
A client with congestive heart failure is recieving digoxin. What is the desired effect:
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Decreased appetite
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Increased urinary output
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Increased pedal edema
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Neck vein distention
Correct Answer
A. Increased urinary outputExplanation
The desired effect of digoxin in a client with congestive heart failure is increased urinary output. Digoxin is a medication commonly used to treat heart failure by increasing the force of the heart's contractions and improving cardiac output. This increased cardiac output helps to improve blood flow to the kidneys, leading to increased urine production. Increased urinary output is beneficial in heart failure as it helps to reduce fluid overload and decrease symptoms such as edema and shortness of breath.Rate this question:
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- 21.
An abrupt withdrawal of this medication can lead to cardiovascular collapse:
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Calcium
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Predisone
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Lisinopril
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Colace
Correct Answer
A. PredisoneExplanation
Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication commonly used to treat various inflammatory conditions. Abruptly stopping prednisone can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, leading to cardiovascular collapse. This is because prednisone has an effect on the body's natural production of cortisol, which helps regulate blood pressure. When prednisone is abruptly withdrawn, the body may not be able to compensate for this sudden change, resulting in cardiovascular instability. Therefore, it is important to gradually taper off prednisone under medical supervision to avoid potential complications.Rate this question:
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- 22.
A patient has a new prescription for an adrenergic drug. During a review of the patient's list of current medications, which would cause concern about a posssible interaction with this new prescribtion:
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A benzodiazepine taken as needed for allergies
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A multivitamin with iron
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An oral anticoagulant
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NSAIDS
Correct Answer
A. A benzodiazepine taken as needed for allergiesExplanation
Taking a benzodiazepine as needed for allergies may cause concern for a possible interaction with the new prescription of an adrenergic drug. Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants, while adrenergic drugs stimulate the sympathetic nervous system. The combination of these two types of drugs can have opposing effects on the body, potentially leading to adverse reactions or decreased effectiveness of either medication. Therefore, it is important to monitor the patient closely and consider alternative treatment options to avoid any potential interactions.Rate this question:
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- 23.
A patient has a potassium level of 6.0 and a digoxin level of 3.0 What medication would the nurse be giving:
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Digabind
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Sodium citrate
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Epinephrine
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Lidocaine
Correct Answer
A. DigabindExplanation
The nurse would be giving Digabind because a potassium level of 6.0 and a digoxin level of 3.0 indicate hyperkalemia and digoxin toxicity. Digabind is the antidote for digoxin toxicity, so it would be the appropriate medication to administer in this situation.Rate this question:
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Dec 12, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Aug 26, 2009Quiz Created by
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