A client reports using over-the-counter calcium carbonate antacid. Which of the following recommendations should the nurse make about taking this medication?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct recommendation for a client using over-the-counter calcium carbonate antacid is to drink a glass of water after taking the medication (Option D). Calcium carbonate antacids work by neutralizing stomach acid, and taking them with water helps enhance their effectiveness by promoting dissolution and absorption in the stomach. Option A is incorrect because decreasing bulk in the diet would not counteract diarrhea, which can be a common side effect of calcium carbonate antacids. Option B is incorrect as taking the medication with dairy products can actually decrease its absorption due to the presence of other minerals that compete for absorption. Option C is unrelated to the use of calcium carbonate antacids. From an educational perspective, it is crucial for nurses to understand the appropriate administration guidelines for medications to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes for patients. Educating patients on the correct way to take their medications can significantly impact their treatment effectiveness and overall health outcomes. It is important to emphasize the rationale behind specific recommendations to empower patients in managing their own health effectively.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pharmacology, it is crucial to understand the principles of corticosteroid therapy to provide safe and effective care to clients. In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Adrenocortical insufficiency. When a client abruptly stops taking prednisone, a corticosteroid, after prolonged use, it can suppress the body's natural production of cortisol. Cortisol is essential for various physiological functions, including maintaining blood pressure, regulating metabolism, and responding to stress. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to adrenocortical insufficiency, as the adrenal glands may not be able to produce enough cortisol to meet the body's needs, resulting in potentially life-threatening complications. The incorrect options can be explained as follows: A) Hyperglycemia: While corticosteroids like prednisone can indeed increase blood sugar levels, abrupt discontinuation is more likely to lead to adrenocortical insufficiency rather than hyperglycemia. C) Severe dehydration: Discontinuing prednisone gradually helps prevent adrenal suppression, not dehydration. D) Rebound pulmonary congestion: This is not a common adverse effect associated with corticosteroid discontinuation but rather may occur with the use of certain medications for asthma. Educationally, it is important to teach students and healthcare professionals about the significance of tapering corticosteroid doses gradually to allow the body's adrenal glands to resume cortisol production safely. Understanding the mechanism of action and potential adverse effects of corticosteroids is essential in managing patients effectively and ensuring optimal outcomes in clinical practice.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In pharmacology, levothyroxine is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4) used to treat hypothyroidism. The correct answer is D) Decrease in level of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) indicates a therapeutic response to levothyroxine therapy. Levothyroxine works by replacing the deficient thyroid hormone, which in turn suppresses the release of TSH from the pituitary gland due to negative feedback. A decrease in TSH levels indicates that the thyroid hormone levels are within the therapeutic range. Option A) Decrease in the level of thyroxine (T4) would actually indicate a problem as the goal of levothyroxine therapy is to normalize T4 levels. Option B) Increase in weight would not be a sign of a therapeutic response to levothyroxine as weight gain is often a symptom of hypothyroidism, which should improve with treatment. Option C) Increase in hours of sleep per night is not a direct indicator of the effectiveness of levothyroxine therapy. While improved sleep may occur as a result of normalized thyroid function, it is not a specific marker of therapeutic response. Understanding the specific indicators of therapeutic response to medications is crucial in pharmacology to assess the effectiveness of treatment and ensure positive patient outcomes. Monitoring TSH levels is a key aspect of managing thyroid disorders and evaluating the success of levothyroxine therapy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Limiting intake of caffeine-containing beverages is important for managing peptic ulcer disease as caffeine can stimulate gastric acid secretion, which may worsen the condition. It is advisable to choose decaffeinated beverages and avoid caffeinated drinks to help reduce the risk of aggravating the ulcer.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of a client receiving chemotherapy and being prescribed ondansetron IV for nausea and vomiting, the nurse should monitor for tremors as an adverse effect. Ondansetron is a serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist commonly used to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. Tremors can be a potential side effect due to its action on neurotransmitter pathways in the brain. Option A, hypotension, is less likely with ondansetron as it is not known to significantly affect blood pressure. Option B, bradycardia, is also less common with ondansetron compared to other antiemetic medications. Option D, urinary retention, is not typically associated with ondansetron use. Educationally, understanding the potential adverse effects of medications used in specific clinical situations is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care. Monitoring for and recognizing these adverse effects promptly can help prevent complications and improve patient outcomes. In the case of chemotherapy patients, managing nausea and vomiting effectively can significantly impact their quality of life during treatment.