A healthcare professional reviewing a client's medical record notes a new prescription for verifying the trough level of the client's medication. Which of the following actions should the professional take?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: To verify trough levels of a medication, the healthcare professional should obtain a blood specimen immediately before administering the next dose of medication. This timing ensures an accurate representation of the medication's lowest concentration in the bloodstream, which is crucial for therapeutic monitoring and dose adjustments.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) 6.5 mL. To calculate the correct dosage, we need to use the formula: Desired dose/Have dose x Quantity. Given: Desired dose = 650 mg Have dose = 500 mg/5 mL Quantity = unknown (let's call it X mL) First, we need to find out how many mL contain 650 mg of acetaminophen: (500 mg/5 mL) x X mL = 650 mg Solving for X, we get X = (650 mg x 5 mL) / 500 mg = 6.5 mL Educational context: Understanding medication dosage calculations is crucial for healthcare professionals to ensure safe and accurate administration of medications. This question tests the ability to calculate the correct dosage based on the provided information and conversion factors. It also reinforces the importance of double-checking calculations to prevent medication errors. Why the other options are wrong: - Option B) 7 mL is incorrect because the precise calculation results in 6.5 mL, not 7 mL. - Option C) 5 mL is incorrect as it does not provide the full 650 mg dosage required. - Option D) 8 mL is incorrect as it overestimates the required dosage based on the calculation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Change positions slowly when you move from sitting to standing. This instruction is crucial when taking antihypertensive medications, as they can cause orthostatic hypotension, leading to a drop in blood pressure upon standing. By advising the client to change positions slowly, the nurse helps prevent dizziness, falls, and related complications. Option A is incorrect because antihypertensive medications like ACE inhibitors or ARBs may actually increase potassium levels, so limiting potassium intake is not necessary unless advised by a healthcare provider. Option B is incorrect because checking blood pressure every 8 hours is excessive and not a standard practice for monitoring blood pressure in this context. Option C is incorrect because tachycardia (rapid heart rate) is not a typical indication for increasing the dosage of antihypertensive medication. Dosage adjustments are usually based on blood pressure readings and overall response to the medication. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind each instruction is vital for nurses to provide safe and effective patient care. Teaching patients about medication side effects and necessary precautions empowers them to manage their health and adhere to treatment regimens effectively.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In a situation where a client presents with Benzodiazepine toxicity, the priority action for the nurse is to assess the client. By identifying the client's level of orientation, the nurse can gather crucial information about the client's mental status, which is essential for determining the appropriate care and interventions needed. Administering flumazenil, infusing IV fluids, or preparing for gastric lavage may be necessary interventions but should follow a thorough assessment of the client's condition.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is A) You may have a decreased desire for intimacy while taking this medication. Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). One of the common side effects of SSRIs like fluoxetine is a decrease in libido and sexual desire. Therefore, it is essential for the nurse to educate the client about this potential side effect to promote awareness and understanding. Option B) You should take this medication at bedtime to help promote sleep is incorrect because fluoxetine is typically taken in the morning due to its potential to cause insomnia as a side effect. Option C) You will have fewer urinary adverse effects if you urinate just before taking this medication is incorrect as fluoxetine is not known to cause urinary adverse effects that would be mitigated by emptying the bladder before taking it. Option D) You'll need to wear sunglasses when outdoors due to the light sensitivity caused by this medication is incorrect as light sensitivity is not a common side effect of fluoxetine. Educationally, understanding the side effects and administration instructions of medications is crucial for nurses to ensure safe and effective patient care. Providing accurate information to clients about their medications empowers them to manage their health effectively and enhances medication adherence.