A client with Atrial Fibrillation is prescribed Dabigatran to prevent Thrombosis. Which medication is prescribed concurrently to treat an adverse effect of Dabigatran?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Omeprazole. Dabigatran is a direct thrombin inhibitor used for anticoagulation in conditions like atrial fibrillation. One common adverse effect of Dabigatran is gastrointestinal irritation, which can lead to gastritis or ulcers. Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that helps reduce stomach acid production, thereby alleviating gastrointestinal symptoms associated with Dabigatran therapy. Option A) Vitamin K1 is used as an antidote for warfarin, a vitamin K antagonist, and is not indicated for the adverse effects of Dabigatran. Option B) Protamine is used to reverse the anticoagulant effects of heparin, not Dabigatran. Option D) Probenecid is a uricosuric agent used in gout to increase excretion of uric acid and is not relevant to the scenario. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding not only the primary pharmacological actions of medications but also their potential adverse effects and how to manage them effectively to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes. It underscores the need for healthcare providers to have a comprehensive knowledge of pharmacology to make informed clinical decisions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct instruction that the nurse should provide is option C: Allow a 2-hour interval between taking sucralfate and phenytoin. This is because sucralfate can decrease the absorption of phenytoin due to its binding properties in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially leading to subtherapeutic levels of phenytoin and ineffective seizure control. By spacing out the administration of these medications by 2 hours, the interaction between sucralfate and phenytoin can be minimized, allowing for optimal absorption and effectiveness of both drugs. Option A (Take an antacid with sucralfate) is incorrect because combining sucralfate with an antacid can reduce its effectiveness by altering its pH-dependent mechanism of action. Option B (Take sucralfate with a glass of milk) is incorrect as milk may also interfere with the absorption of sucralfate. Option D (Chew the sucralfate thoroughly before swallowing) is incorrect because sucralfate should not be chewed but rather swallowed whole to ensure its proper functioning in coating the stomach lining. From an educational perspective, this question highlights the importance of understanding drug interactions and the significance of timing when administering medications that may interact with each other. Nurses must be knowledgeable about potential interactions to ensure the safety and efficacy of drug therapy for their patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Acetaminophen. Acetaminophen is known to potentiate the effects of Warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding in the client. Acetaminophen can interfere with the metabolism of Warfarin, leading to higher levels of Warfarin in the blood and subsequently increasing the risk of bleeding complications. Option A) Vitamin K is incorrect because Vitamin K actually antagonizes the effects of Warfarin by promoting clotting factors' synthesis. Calcium carbonate (Option B) and Ranitidine (Option D) do not have significant interactions with Warfarin that would increase the risk of bleeding. Educationally, understanding drug interactions is crucial in pharmacology to ensure safe and effective medication management for patients. Nurses need to be aware of potential interactions to prevent adverse drug events and optimize patient outcomes. It is essential to educate patients about the importance of disclosing all medications, including over-the-counter drugs like Acetaminophen, to healthcare providers when starting a new prescription like Warfarin.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Hyponatremia is a critical adverse effect associated with hydrochlorothiazide use. This medication is a diuretic that can lead to excessive loss of sodium and water from the body, potentially causing low sodium levels and resulting in hyponatremia. Monitoring for signs and symptoms of hyponatremia, such as confusion, headache, weakness, and muscle cramps, is essential to prevent serious complications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Erythromycin should be taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water to increase absorption. Taking it with milk (choice A) or an antacid (choice D) can interfere with its absorption. Avoiding direct sunlight (choice B) is not directly related to the administration of erythromycin.