A healthcare professional is preparing to administer digoxin (Lanoxin), 0.125 mg orally, to a client with heart failure. Which vital sign is most important for the healthcare professional to check before administering the medication?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Before administering digoxin, it is essential to assess the client's heart rate as this medication directly affects cardiac function. Monitoring the heart rate helps identify if it is within the acceptable range for administering digoxin. A pulse rate below 60 beats per minute warrants withholding the medication to prevent potential adverse effects like bradycardia or cardiac arrhythmias.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and the administration of desmopressin acetate (DDAVP), the correct answer is B) Drowsiness as an adverse effect. Desmopressin acetate is a synthetic analog of vasopressin, used to treat conditions like diabetes insipidus. Drowsiness is an adverse effect because desmopressin can affect the central nervous system, leading to sedation. Option A) Insomnia is incorrect because desmopressin is not known to cause insomnia; in fact, it can have the opposite effect due to its impact on the regulation of sleep-wake cycles. Option C) Weight loss is incorrect as desmopressin is not typically associated with weight loss. In fact, fluid retention is a more common effect of this medication. Option D) Increased urination is also incorrect because desmopressin works to decrease urine production, making it an expected therapeutic effect rather than an adverse one. Educationally, understanding the adverse effects of medications is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers to ensure patient safety and well-being. It is essential to recognize and differentiate between expected therapeutic effects and potential adverse reactions to provide appropriate care and interventions for patients receiving pharmacological treatments.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Runny nose. Desmopressin acetate is a synthetic analogue of the antidiuretic hormone vasopressin. When administered intranasally, it can lead to side effects such as nasal congestion, runny nose, or irritation in the nasal passages. This is due to the direct contact of the medication with the nasal mucosa. Option A) Headache is a common side effect of desmopressin, but it typically occurs less frequently than nasal symptoms. Option B) Vulval pain is not a known side effect of intranasal desmopressin. Option D) Flushed skin is also not a typical side effect associated with this medication. In an educational context, it is important for healthcare providers to be knowledgeable about the side effects of medications they prescribe to ensure safe and effective patient care. Understanding the potential adverse effects of desmopressin acetate, such as nasal symptoms, allows healthcare providers to educate patients on what to expect and how to manage these effects.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because cholestyramine should not only be taken with water. Flavored products or fruit juices can improve the taste. Choices A, B, and D are all correct statements. It is important for the client to continue taking vitamin supplements, understand that cholestyramine helps lower cholesterol, and maintain a high-fiber diet while taking this medication to enhance its effectiveness.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pharmacology, the order of administration of inhalers is crucial to ensure optimal therapeutic effects. The correct answer, option A, directs the nurse to administer albuterol (a short-acting bronchodilator) first, followed by beclomethasone dipropionate (a corticosteroid). This sequence is essential because albuterol helps to open the airways quickly, allowing better penetration of the corticosteroid for long-term control of inflammation. Option B is incorrect as administering the corticosteroid before the bronchodilator may limit the bronchodilator's effectiveness due to inadequate airway opening. Option C and D are also incorrect as alternating puffs of each medication may not provide the appropriate therapeutic effect needed for each medication. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind the order of inhaler administration is crucial for nursing students to provide safe and effective care to patients with respiratory conditions. This knowledge ensures that students can prioritize medications based on their pharmacological actions and optimize treatment outcomes for patients.