A patient is taking aspirin for secondary prevention of myocardial infarction and is experiencing moderate gastrointestinal upset. The nurse will contact the patient™s provider to discuss changing from aspirin to which of the following?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Coated aspirin refers to enteric-coated aspirin, which is a type of aspirin that has a special coating designed to help protect the stomach lining and reduce gastrointestinal upset. Unlike regular aspirin, enteric-coated aspirin is less likely to cause irritation to the stomach and therefore may be a better option for patients experiencing gastrointestinal issues. Switching to coated aspirin can help alleviate the patient's symptoms while still providing the antiplatelet benefits needed for secondary prevention of myocardial infarction. It is important for the nurse to communicate with the provider to discuss this alternative option and ensure the patient's safety and well-being.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Hydrogen peroxide is commonly used to soften and remove cerumen (earwax) impaction due to its effervescent properties, which help break down the wax. Rubbing alcohol (B) is used for drying the ear canal but is not effective for cerumen impaction. Charcoal (C) and clove oil (D) are not used for this purpose.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Dizziness is a common side effect of many blood pressure medications, particularly during the initial days of therapy. This side effect increases the patient's risk of falls or other injuries, especially in elderly patients or those with mobility issues. The nursing diagnosis 'Risk for injury' is the most appropriate because it directly addresses the potential harm caused by dizziness. While 'Activity intolerance' and 'Self-care deficit' may be relevant in some cases, they do not specifically address the immediate risk posed by dizziness. 'Disturbed body image' is unrelated to this scenario. Therefore, 'Risk for injury' is the best diagnosis to guide nursing interventions, such as monitoring the patient and educating them on safety measures.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Levothyroxine (Synthroid) is a synthetic thyroid hormone used to treat hypothyroidism. Overdose or excessive dosing can lead to symptoms of hyperthyroidism, including tachycardia (rapid heart rate), palpitations, and anxiety. Hypotension and bradycardia are not typical adverse effects of levothyroxine. Constipation is more commonly associated with hypothyroidism, not its treatment. Therefore, tachycardia is the correct answer as it reflects the potential for overstimulation of the cardiovascular system due to excessive thyroid hormone levels.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Steady-state concentration is reached after 4-5 half-lives, when drug input equals output. Digoxin's half-life is 40 hours (1.67 days). Four half-lives is 4 × 40 = 160 hours (6.67 days), and five is 200 hours (8.33 days). Over 90% steady state occurs around 4 half-lives, roughly 6-7 days. Two days (48 hours) is only ~1.2 half-lives, far too short. Ten days (~6 half-lives) exceeds 90%, but 7 days (~4.2 half-lives) aligns with >90% (e.g., 94% at 4 half-lives). Fourteen or 18 days overshoot unnecessarily. Seven days balances precision and practicality, guiding digoxin dosing timelines in heart failure or arrhythmias.