A client is taking Epoetin Alfa for anemia. Which of the following laboratory tests should the nurse monitor to evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should monitor the hematocrit level to evaluate the effectiveness of Epoetin Alfa therapy since it stimulates red blood cell production. Hematocrit reflects the volume of red blood cells in the blood, providing a direct measure of the therapy's impact on increasing red blood cell mass and addressing anemia.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) "This medication can absorb into your contacts." This instruction is crucial because Brimonidine ophthalmic drops are known to be absorbed by soft contact lenses, which can lead to decreased drug efficacy and potential irritation to the eyes due to the preservatives present in the medication. Option A) "This medication can stain your contacts" is incorrect because Brimonidine does not typically stain contact lenses. Option B) "This medication can cause your pupils to constrict" is unrelated to the interaction between the medication and contact lenses. Option D) "This medication can slow your heart rate" is not a known side effect of Brimonidine ophthalmic drops. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding medication interactions with other products, such as contact lenses. It emphasizes the need for thorough patient education to ensure the safe and effective use of medications, especially those involving ocular administration. Nurses must be vigilant in providing accurate information to prevent potential complications and promote positive health outcomes for their patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Bethanechol is a muscarinic agonist that stimulates muscarinic receptors. Activation of muscarinic receptors can lead to excessive perspiration (diaphoresis) due to increased cholinergic activity, affecting sweat glands. Dry mouth, hypertension, and fecal impaction are not typically associated with muscarinic stimulation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pharmacology, providing clear and accurate instructions to clients is crucial to ensure safe and effective medication administration. In the case of Beclomethasone, which is an inhaled corticosteroid commonly used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma, option A, "Rinse your mouth after each use of this medication," is the correct instruction to include. Rinsing the mouth after using Beclomethasone helps to reduce the risk of developing oral thrush, a common side effect associated with inhaled corticosteroids. This step is important in preventing fungal infections in the mouth and throat. Options B, C, and D are incorrect: - Option B, "Limit fluid intake while taking this medication," is inaccurate and can be harmful advice. Adequate fluid intake is important to prevent dehydration, especially when using corticosteroids. - Option C, "Increase your intake of vitamin B12 while taking this medication," is not necessary for Beclomethasone use. There is no specific requirement to increase vitamin B12 intake with this medication. - Option D, "You can take the medication as needed," is incorrect because Beclomethasone is typically prescribed on a scheduled basis, not as needed, to maintain consistent therapeutic levels in the body. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind each instruction helps nurses provide comprehensive care to clients and ensures safe medication practices. By explaining the importance of rinsing the mouth after using Beclomethasone, nurses empower clients to take an active role in their treatment and minimize potential side effects associated with the medication.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Sedation. Dextromethorphan is a common cough suppressant that can cause sedation as an adverse effect. It acts on the central nervous system to suppress the cough reflex, which can lead to drowsiness and sedation in some individuals. Option A) Diarrhea is not a common adverse effect of dextromethorphan. It is more commonly associated with gastrointestinal medications or antibiotics. Option B) Anxiety is also not a typical adverse effect of dextromethorphan. It is more commonly associated with stimulant medications or drugs that affect the nervous system differently. Option D) Palpitations are not a usual adverse effect of dextromethorphan. Palpitations are more commonly associated with stimulant medications or medications that affect the cardiovascular system. In an educational context, it is important for nurses to understand the common adverse effects of medications in order to educate clients effectively. By knowing the potential side effects of dextromethorphan, nurses can provide accurate information to clients, monitor for adverse reactions, and intervene appropriately if necessary.