A nurse is caring for a female diagnosed with a mental disorder who has been prescribed medication. Which fact will most impact the nurse’s assessment for possible side effects?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because women are at higher risk for tardive dyskinesia while taking conventional antipsychotic medications. This fact is crucial for the nurse's assessment because tardive dyskinesia is a serious side effect characterized by involuntary movements and can be irreversible. Understanding this risk allows the nurse to closely monitor the patient for symptoms and intervene promptly if needed. Choice B is incorrect because there is no evidence to suggest that women experience more severe side effects than men while taking atypical antidepressants. Choice C is incorrect as there is no generalization that women are more susceptible to developing a dependence on most psychiatric medications compared to men. Choice D is incorrect because there is no established evidence that women are less susceptible to developing common side effects of antipsychotic medications than men.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the euphoric effects of opioids. Here's the rationale: 1. Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors, preventing the euphoria associated with opioid use. 2. By blocking the euphoric effects, naltrexone reduces the reinforcing properties of opioids. 3. This decreases the likelihood of relapse as the patient does not experience the desired effects of opioids. 4. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because naltrexone does not prevent cravings, act as a substitute, or cause adverse reactions like flushing and sweating.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Dysrhythmias. Antidysrhythmic drugs can potentially cause new or worsened dysrhythmias as an adverse effect due to their mechanism of action on cardiac electrophysiology. This can lead to serious complications such as ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. A: Deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins - Antidysrhythmic drugs do not typically cause this adverse effect. B: Hyperkalemia - While some drugs may affect potassium levels, dysrhythmias are a more direct and common adverse effect of antidysrhythmic drugs. C: Heart failure - While some drugs may exacerbate heart failure in certain situations, dysrhythmias are a more immediate concern with antidysrhythmic therapy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: A short-acting beta2 agonist such as albuterol (Proventil). In an acute asthma attack, bronchodilation is crucial for quick relief. Short-acting beta2 agonists like albuterol act rapidly to dilate the airways, providing immediate relief of symptoms. Anticholinergics like ipratropium (A) are also bronchodilators but are not as effective for acute exacerbations. Long-acting beta2 agonists like salmeterol (C) are used for long-term maintenance, not for immediate relief. Corticosteroids like fluticasone (D) are important for reducing airway inflammation but are not the first-line treatment for acute attacks.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Renal tubules. Biological barriers are structures that prevent the entry of harmful substances into the body. Renal tubules are not considered a biological barrier as they are involved in the filtration and reabsorption of substances within the body, rather than acting as a physical barrier. Cell membranes, capillary walls, and the placenta are all examples of biological barriers as they selectively control the passage of substances into and out of cells, tissues, and organs to maintain homeostasis. Therefore, the renal tubules do not fit the criteria of a biological barrier, making option A the correct answer.