A client has been taking Phenylephrine nasal drops for the past 10 days for Sinusitis. The nurse should assess the client for which of the following adverse effects of this medication?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the given scenario, the correct answer is B) Nasal congestion. Phenylephrine is a decongestant commonly used to relieve nasal congestion associated with conditions like sinusitis. Its primary mechanism of action is to constrict blood vessels in the nasal passages, leading to reduced swelling and congestion. Therefore, the nurse should assess the client for any worsening or persistent nasal congestion as it could indicate a potential adverse effect of the medication. Regarding the incorrect options: A) Sedation: Phenylephrine is a sympathomimetic agent that typically causes stimulation rather than sedation. C) Productive cough: Phenylephrine is not known to directly cause a productive cough. D) Constipation: Constipation is not a common adverse effect associated with Phenylephrine use, as its effects are primarily localized to the nasal passages. In an educational context, understanding the potential adverse effects of medications is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to their clients. By knowing the expected outcomes of pharmacological interventions, nurses can monitor for adverse effects, intervene promptly, and collaborate with healthcare providers to optimize patient outcomes. This knowledge also underscores the importance of thorough assessment and patient education in medication management.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Delirium. Nitroprusside is a potent vasodilator used to treat hypertensive crises. One of the most significant adverse reactions associated with nitroprusside is cyanide toxicity, which can manifest as delirium due to its impact on the central nervous system. It is crucial for the nurse to monitor for this adverse reaction to ensure prompt intervention and prevent further complications. Option A) Intestinal ileus is not a common adverse reaction to nitroprusside. Neutropenia (Option B) refers to a low level of neutrophils and is not typically associated with nitroprusside use. Hyperthermia (Option D) is also not a common adverse reaction to this medication. Educationally, understanding the potential adverse reactions of medications is essential for nurses to provide safe and effective care to their patients. Monitoring for and recognizing adverse reactions promptly can prevent serious complications and improve patient outcomes. This knowledge underscores the importance of pharmacology education in nursing practice.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In a situation where Anginal pain persists after taking one sublingual tablet and waiting 5 minutes, it is crucial to call emergency services (911) immediately. This could indicate a myocardial infarction (heart attack) rather than a typical Anginal attack. The client can take a second sublingual tablet while waiting for emergency assistance. If the pain persists after taking the second tablet, a third tablet can be taken after an additional 5 minutes. Prompt action is essential in such situations to ensure appropriate and timely medical intervention.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the client is experiencing severe hypotension due to Verapamil administration. The appropriate medication to counteract the vasodilation caused by Verapamil and reverse severe hypotension is Calcium gluconate, which should be administered slowly IV. Therefore, the correct choice is Calcium gluconate (Choice A).

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Take colesevelam with food and at least one glass of water. Colesevelam is a bile acid sequestrant that can bind to other drugs in the digestive tract, potentially decreasing their absorption. Taking it with food and water helps prevent this interaction, ensuring optimal absorption of both medications. Option A is incorrect because taking digoxin with colesevelam may lead to reduced digoxin absorption due to the binding effects of colesevelam. Option B is unrelated to the interaction between digoxin and colesevelam. Option C is not relevant to the instructions for taking colesevelam. From an educational perspective, it is crucial for nurses to understand drug interactions and how certain medications should be taken to maximize their effectiveness. Teaching patients about the proper administration of medications helps prevent adverse effects and ensures treatment success. This question highlights the importance of considering drug-drug interactions when managing a patient's medication regimen.