A patient calls the clinic office saying that the cholestyramine (Questran) powder he started yesterday clumps and sticks to the glass when he tries to mix it. The nurse will suggest what method for mixing this medication for administration?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Cholestyramine (Questran) is a bile acid sequestrant used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. To prevent clumping and sticking to the glass when mixing the powder, the nurse will suggest mixing the powder with food or fruit, or at least 4 to 6 ounces of fluid. This method helps to evenly disperse the powder and prevent clumping, making it easier for the patient to consume the medication. Mixing the powder with a carbonated soda drink (choice A) may not be suitable as the effervescence of the soda could affect the medication's stability. Adding the powder to any liquid and stirring vigorously (choice B) may not dissolve the powder effectively. Taking the powder dry on a spoon followed by a glass of water (choice E) may be difficult for the patient to swallow and may not distribute the medication evenly. Mixing with food or fluid provides a more palatable and effective method for administering Questr

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin overdose. Heparin is a commonly used anticoagulant medication that works by inhibiting the activity of thrombin and preventing blood clot formation. In the case of an overdose leading to excessive bleeding, protamine sulfate can be administered to neutralize the effects of heparin. Protamine sulfate forms a complex with heparin, therefore reversing its anticoagulant effects and helping to stop the bleeding. This antidote is especially useful in situations where immediate reversal of heparin's effects is necessary to prevent serious complications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In pharmacology, monitoring patients receiving Phenytoin is crucial to ensure safe and effective treatment. The correct answer is D) all of the above because each option plays a critical role in patient care. Monitoring behavior is important as Phenytoin can cause behavioral changes, such as confusion or agitation, which may indicate toxicity. Therapeutic blood levels must be monitored because Phenytoin has a narrow therapeutic range, and levels outside this range can lead to ineffective treatment or toxicity. Monitoring for Steven Johnson syndrome is essential because Phenytoin is associated with severe skin reactions like this syndrome. Option A, monitoring behavior, is not sufficient on its own as it does not provide objective data on drug levels or potential adverse effects. Option B, monitoring therapeutic blood levels, is important but alone does not address all aspects of patient safety. Option C, monitoring for Steven Johnson syndrome, is crucial but does not cover all potential monitoring parameters for Phenytoin. In an educational context, this question highlights the comprehensive approach needed when administering medications like Phenytoin. It emphasizes the importance of monitoring various aspects of patient health to ensure the best possible outcomes. Understanding the rationale behind monitoring parameters for specific medications is essential for nursing practice to provide safe and effective care to patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In order to prevent graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in a severely immunocompromised patient receiving a blood transfusion, the physician will order irradiation of the donor blood. GVHD is a rare but serious complication that can occur when the donor's T lymphocytes attack the recipient's tissues. Irradiation of the blood eliminates the T lymphocytes, thereby reducing the risk of GVHD in immunocompromised patients. Diphenhydramine hydrochloride (Benadryl) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are commonly used to manage transfusion reactions but do not specifically prevent GVHD. Administering the transfusion slowly over several hours does not directly address the risk of GVHD.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Metformin is a commonly prescribed medication for managing Type 2 diabetes. The correct answer is D) All of the above. Metformin works through multiple mechanisms to help control blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. A) Decrease intestinal glucose absorption is not the primary action of Metformin. Instead, it primarily works in the liver and muscles to reduce glucose production and increase glucose uptake. B) Increase sensitivity to insulin is one of the key actions of Metformin. It helps the body's cells respond better to insulin, which in turn helps lower blood sugar levels. C) Decrease hepatic glucose production is another crucial action of Metformin. By reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver, it helps lower blood sugar levels. Educationally, understanding the mechanisms of action of medications like Metformin is essential for healthcare professionals to make informed decisions when managing patients with diabetes. Knowing how Metformin works helps in optimizing treatment plans and educating patients on the importance of medication adherence and lifestyle modifications in managing their condition effectively.