A client is experiencing a cough associated with an upper respiratory infection. Which oral medication will likely produce the quickest therapeutic effect?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: A liquid. - Liquids are absorbed more quickly than tablets, providing quicker therapeutic effect. - Liquids have a faster onset of action due to their immediate absorption in the body. - The client experiencing a cough would benefit from the rapid relief offered by a liquid medication. - Tablets, topical sprays, and time would not offer the same quick therapeutic effect as a liquid due to differences in absorption rates.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Lidocaine. Lidocaine is formulated as a transdermal patch for skin absorption. It has a lipophilic structure and low molecular weight, facilitating its penetration through the skin layers. Clonidine and Propranolol are typically administered orally or intravenously, not through the skin. Nitroglycerin is also formulated for skin absorption, often used in patches for angina treatment. However, in this question, the focus is on which drug is specifically formulated for skin absorption, making Lidocaine the most appropriate choice.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: The combined effects are greater than the effects of either one of the drugs alone. When two medications are administered simultaneously, they may work synergistically to produce a greater therapeutic effect than each drug would achieve individually. This is known as a therapeutic synergy. By combining the actions of the drugs, the overall treatment outcome can be more effective. Incorrect choices: A: The adverse effects of one of the drugs are nullified by the other drug - This is incorrect because therapeutic outcomes focus on positive effects, not negating adverse effects. C: One of the drugs enhances metabolism, while the other drug enhances either distribution or absorption - This is incorrect as it does not address the overall therapeutic outcome of the combination. D: Both drugs are toxic in isolation but therapeutic when administered together - This is incorrect as therapeutic outcomes aim for positive effects, not relying on toxicity for efficacy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Regular monitoring of the client's serum lithium levels is crucial to ensure that the drug levels are within a therapeutic range (not too low or too high) to effectively manage bipolar disorder. Maintaining therapeutic levels helps prevent relapse of symptoms and minimizes the risk of toxicity. Monitoring also allows for adjustments in dosage if needed. Choice A is incorrect because blood-drug incompatibilities are not the primary reason for monitoring lithium levels. Choice C is incorrect because monitoring lithium levels is not to determine the need for additional medications. Choice D is incorrect because monitoring is not primarily to confirm adherence, although it can provide information on compliance.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer C: 1. Albumin is a major plasma protein that binds to drugs. 2. Hypoalbuminemia means less albumin is available to bind drugs. 3. Less albumin results in more free drug in the bloodstream. 4. Free drug is pharmacologically active and can generate effects. 5. Therefore, with less albumin, less free drug is available to generate an effect. Summary: A: Distribution of drugs may be affected by protein binding, not albumin levels. B: Solubility matching absorption sites is more related to drug formulation. D: Albumin-bound drugs are not readily excreted by the kidney; they are protected from filtration.