A nurse 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 nurse take?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: To verify the trough levels of a medication accurately, the nurse should obtain a blood specimen immediately before administering the next dose of the medication. The trough level represents the lowest concentration of the medication in the bloodstream, typically right before the next dose is due. This timing ensures an accurate assessment of the drug's concentration in the body at its lowest point, aiding in determining the drug's effectiveness and potential toxicity levels.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this pharmacology question, the correct answer is A) 6.5 mL. To calculate the correct dosage, we first need to determine how many milligrams are needed per dose. The prescription is for 650 mg of acetaminophen, and the liquid form is 500 mg/5 mL. To find out how many milliliters are needed for 650 mg, we set up a proportion: 500 mg is to 5 mL as 650 mg is to X mL. Cross multiplying gives us 500X = 650*5, which simplifies to X = (650*5)/500 = 6.5 mL. Option B) 7 mL is incorrect because it does not accurately reflect the calculated dosage of 6.5 mL. Option C) 5 mL is incorrect as it is the amount of liquid required for 500 mg, not 650 mg. Option D) 8 mL is incorrect as it overestimates the amount needed based on the prescription. Educationally, this question tests the nurse's ability to calculate medication dosages accurately, an essential skill to ensure patient safety and effective treatment. Understanding how to convert between different units of measurement and calculate dosages based on prescription instructions is crucial for nurses in clinical practice. Mastering medication calculations helps prevent medication errors and ensures optimal patient care.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct statement for the nurse to provide is option D, which is to instruct the client to change positions slowly when moving from sitting to standing. This instruction is crucial because antihypertensive medications can cause orthostatic hypotension, leading to dizziness and potential falls when changing positions rapidly. By advising the client to move slowly, the nurse can help prevent these adverse effects. Option A, advising the client to limit potassium intake, is incorrect for most antihypertensive medications. In fact, some antihypertensive medications can lead to potassium loss, so restricting intake could exacerbate this issue. Option B, suggesting checking blood pressure every 8 hours, is excessive and unnecessary for most clients on antihypertensive medications. Typically, blood pressure monitoring at home is recommended at specific times of the day rather than every 8 hours. Option C, indicating dosage increase with tachycardia, is also incorrect. Tachycardia is not a common indicator for increasing the dosage of antihypertensive medications; in fact, it may signal a need for dosage adjustment or a different medication. In an educational context, it is essential for nurses to understand the potential side effects and monitoring parameters for medications, especially antihypertensives, to provide safe and effective care to clients. Teaching clients about medication side effects, appropriate monitoring, and lifestyle modifications is a crucial aspect of nursing practice to promote medication adherence and positive health outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When managing a client with Benzodiazepine toxicity, the priority action for the healthcare professional is to assess the client. Identifying the client's level of orientation allows the healthcare professional to understand the client's cognitive status, which is crucial for further interventions and decision-making in the care plan.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct statement to include in the teaching for a client being discharged with a new prescription for Fluoxetine for PTS is option A) "You may experience a decreased desire for intimacy while taking this medication." This statement is important to include because Fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is known to cause sexual side effects, including decreased libido. Option B) is incorrect because Fluoxetine is typically recommended to be taken in the morning due to its potential to cause insomnia if taken later in the day. Option C) is also incorrect because there are no specific urinary adverse effects associated with Fluoxetine that would require the client to urinate before taking the medication. Option D) is incorrect as well because while some SSRIs may cause light sensitivity, Fluoxetine is not commonly known for this side effect. Educationally, understanding the common side effects of medications like Fluoxetine is crucial for nurses to provide comprehensive patient education. By explaining potential side effects such as decreased libido, nurses empower patients to make informed decisions about their treatment and manage expectations regarding medication effects.