A client is experiencing chest pain and is prescribed nitroglycerin. What should the nurse assess before administering the medication?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Before administering nitroglycerin, which can lower blood pressure and heart rate, it is important to assess both to avoid exacerbating hypotension or bradycardia. Nitroglycerin helps relieve chest pain by dilating coronary arteries, but its vasodilating effect can also cause a significant drop in blood pressure, which can be dangerous for some clients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most important teaching point for a nurse to provide to a client with pneumonia who is prescribed antibiotics is option C: Explain the importance of completing the entire course of antibiotics. This is crucial because incomplete antibiotic courses can lead to treatment failure, recurrence of infection, and the development of antibiotic resistance. Option A: Instructing the client to rest as much as possible is important for recovery but not as critical as ensuring the antibiotics are taken correctly. Option B: Encouraging increased fluid intake to thin secretions is a good general recommendation for respiratory infections but does not address the specific importance of completing the antibiotic course. Option D: Instructing the client to stop taking antibiotics once symptoms subside is dangerous as it can lead to a relapse of the infection and potential antibiotic resistance. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind completing the full course of antibiotics is essential for nurses to effectively communicate this information to patients, promote adherence, and improve patient outcomes. It is also crucial for nurses to educate patients on the risks of antibiotic misuse and the importance of following prescribed treatment regimens to combat the global issue of antibiotic resistance.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of the HESI RN Exit Exam Capstone, the most important teaching for a client prescribed phenytoin is to maintain a consistent dosing schedule to prevent seizures (Option B). This is crucial because phenytoin is an antiepileptic medication that works best when the blood levels are kept within a therapeutic range. Missing doses or taking them at irregular intervals can lead to breakthrough seizures, compromising the client's safety and seizure control. Option A is incorrect because phenytoin should not be taken with antacids as they can decrease the absorption of the medication, reducing its effectiveness. Option C is relevant but not as critical as maintaining a consistent dosing schedule. Monitoring for drowsiness and dizziness is important but does not address the fundamental aspect of preventing seizures through proper medication administration. Option D is incorrect because phenytoin does not need to be specifically taken at bedtime to reduce seizure risk. The key lies in consistency rather than timing. In an educational context, understanding the importance of medication adherence and dosing schedules is vital for nursing practice. Nurses play a crucial role in patient education to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes and safety. By emphasizing the significance of maintaining a consistent dosing schedule for phenytoin, nurses can empower clients to take control of their health and effectively manage their seizure disorder.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Assess for signs of hyperkalemia. When a client with heart failure is prescribed spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic, the nurse's priority is to monitor for signs of hyperkalemia, a potential side effect of this medication. Hyperkalemia can lead to serious cardiac complications, especially in clients with heart failure. Option A) Monitor the client's potassium levels closely may seem like a valid intervention, but assessing for signs and symptoms of hyperkalemia is more immediate and directly related to the client's well-being. Option C) Instruct the client to increase intake of potassium-rich foods is incorrect because clients on potassium-sparing diuretics like spironolactone need to limit their potassium intake to prevent hyperkalemia. Option D) Increase the client's fluid intake to prevent dehydration is not the priority when managing a client on spironolactone. While maintaining adequate fluid intake is important, it is not the priority over monitoring for potential hyperkalemia. Educationally, understanding the side effects and nursing considerations related to specific medications is crucial for providing safe and effective care to clients. Nurses must be able to prioritize interventions based on the client's condition and the potential risks associated with prescribed medications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Report any signs of increased redness or itching. When a client with psoriasis is prescribed topical corticosteroids, the nurse should monitor for signs of increased redness or itching as these can indicate a potential worsening of the condition or a possible allergic reaction to the medication. Option A) Monitor for weight gain and skin thinning is incorrect because these are not common side effects of topical corticosteroids. Weight gain and skin thinning are more commonly associated with systemic corticosteroid use. Option B) Assess for increased sensitivity to sunlight is incorrect as this is not a typical side effect of topical corticosteroids used to treat psoriasis. Option C) Monitor for hair loss and excessive bruising is incorrect because these are also not common side effects of topical corticosteroids used for psoriasis. Educationally, understanding the side effects of medications is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to their patients. By knowing the expected side effects of topical corticosteroids, nurses can monitor for and address any potential complications promptly, ensuring the best outcomes for their clients.