A patient will be receiving a thrombolytic drug as part of the treatment for acute myocardial infarction. The nurse explains to the patient that this drug is used for which purpose?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Thrombolytic drugs are used to dissolve blood clots (thrombi) that are causing blockages in blood vessels, such as the coronary arteries in the case of acute myocardial infarction (heart attack). By breaking down the clot, these drugs help to restore blood flow to the affected area, reducing damage to the heart muscle and improving the patient's prognosis. Thrombolytic therapy is time-sensitive and is most effective when administered soon after the onset of a heart attack to minimize the extent of heart muscle damage.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Packed red blood cells (PRBCs) always require cross-matching with the recipient to prevent a transfusion reaction. Cross-matching is crucial for PRBCs because they contain red blood cells with antigens on their surface that may react with antibodies in the recipient's plasma, potentially causing a transfusion reaction. Cross-matching involves testing the compatibility of donor red blood cells with the recipient's plasma to ensure a safe transfusion. Other blood products like granulocytes, platelets, and plasma do not contain red blood cells and, therefore, do not require cross-matching.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Lithium is primarily used to stabilize mood and prevent manic episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder. It is a mood-stabilizing medication that helps to lessen the severity and frequency of manic episodes. Lithium is not used to lower blood glucose, slow the heart rate, or heal ulcers. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and have regular monitoring of lithium levels in the blood to ensure its effectiveness and prevent toxicity.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication that works by inhibiting the body's ability to clot blood. While it is an effective medication for preventing blood clots and strokes, one of its major complications is the increased risk of bleeding. This can manifest as easy bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or more serious internal bleeding in organs such as the stomach or brain. Cramps, fever, and nausea are not common complications of Warfarin use.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Teaching a patient how to prepare an inhaler is an important step in proper medication administration. Shaking the inhaler for about 5 seconds before use helps to ensure that the medication is properly mixed and dispersed. This is especially important for metered-dose inhalers where the medication is dispersed as a fine spray. Priming the inhaler by shaking it helps ensure that the patient receives the correct dose of medication with each use.