A client in a critical care unit is postoperative following a right pneumonectomy. After extubation from the ventilator, in which of the following positions should the client be placed?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: After a pneumonectomy, positioning the client in a semi-Fowler's position is crucial for optimal ventilation. This position helps improve lung expansion on the remaining side, facilitating better oxygenation and preventing complications like atelectasis. Placing the client prone, on the nonoperative side, or in Sims' position would not provide the same respiratory benefits post-pneumonectomy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology, it is important for healthcare professionals to understand the potential adverse effects of medications to ensure safe administration and patient monitoring. In the case of vancomycin, the correct answer is C) Red Man Syndrome. Red Man Syndrome is a common adverse reaction associated with vancomycin administration. It is characterized by flushing, erythema, and pruritus on the face, neck, and upper torso. This reaction is not an allergic response but rather an infusion-related histamine release. Monitoring for this adverse effect is crucial to prevent severe reactions and ensure patient safety. A) Nephrotoxicity and B) Hepatotoxicity are potential adverse effects of other medications but are not commonly associated with vancomycin. Monitoring for kidney function and liver enzymes may be necessary with different drugs, but they are not the primary concerns with vancomycin. D) Diarrhea is a potential adverse effect of vancomycin due to its impact on the normal flora of the gut, leading to overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria like Clostridium difficile. However, Red Man Syndrome is a more immediate and specific adverse effect associated with vancomycin use. By understanding the specific adverse effects of vancomycin, healthcare professionals can provide safe and effective care to patients. Monitoring for Red Man Syndrome during vancomycin administration is critical to prevent complications and ensure optimal patient outcomes in clinical practice.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client starting a new prescription for prednisone is not to stop taking the medication abruptly. Abrupt discontinuation of prednisone can lead to adrenal insufficiency, emphasizing the importance of gradual tapering under healthcare provider guidance. Increasing potassium-rich foods may be necessary based on individual needs, but it is not the priority instruction in this context. Grapefruit juice interaction is more commonly associated with certain medications but not specifically with prednisone. Taking prednisone at bedtime to prevent drowsiness is not a key instruction related to its administration.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Blurred vision as an adverse effect of digoxin. Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside commonly used in heart failure to improve cardiac output. One of the adverse effects of digoxin is visual disturbances such as blurred or yellow vision, which can indicate toxicity. Option A) Constipation is not a common adverse effect of digoxin. Option C) Nausea can occur but is a more common side effect rather than an adverse effect. Option D) Headache is not a typical adverse effect associated with digoxin use. Educationally, it is crucial for nursing students to understand the potential adverse effects of medications to provide safe and effective care to patients. Recognizing and managing adverse effects promptly can prevent complications and improve patient outcomes. In the case of digoxin, monitoring for visual disturbances is essential to prevent toxicity and ensure patient safety.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pharmacology, it is crucial to understand the administration instructions for each medication to ensure optimal effectiveness and minimize adverse effects. For alendronate, the correct instruction is to take the medication first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. This is because alendronate is a bisphosphonate drug used to treat osteoporosis, and it is best absorbed in an acidic environment on an empty stomach. Taking it with food, a full glass of milk, or with meals can decrease its absorption and efficacy. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding medication administration guidelines to achieve desired therapeutic outcomes. Teaching students about the specific instructions for each medication helps them provide safe and effective patient care. Emphasizing the rationale behind the correct answer reinforces the pharmacological principles involved in drug absorption and bioavailability, which are essential for nursing practice. By contrasting the incorrect options, students learn to critically think about the implications of incorrect medication administration and its impact on patient outcomes.