A patient with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is prescribed finasteride (Proscar). What outcome should the nurse expect if the medication is effective?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Decreased urinary frequency and urgency. Finasteride is used to reduce the size of the prostate gland in patients with BPH. As a result, when the medication is effective, the patient should experience a decrease in urinary frequency and urgency. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B is inaccurate because finasteride aims to reduce prostate size, not increase it. Choices C and D are unrelated to the action of finasteride in treating BPH.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Use of nitrates.' Tadalafil (Cialis) is contraindicated in patients using nitrates due to the risk of severe hypotension. Nitrates and tadalafil both cause vasodilation, leading to a synergistic effect that can result in a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because a history of hypertension, the use of antihypertensive medications, and a history of peptic ulcer disease are not direct contraindications for tadalafil use.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Raloxifene (Evista) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used in the treatment of osteoporosis. The primary mechanism of action of raloxifene is to decrease bone resorption, which helps to maintain or increase bone density. Option A is correct because raloxifene works by binding to estrogen receptors in the bone, mimicking the effects of estrogen. By doing so, it inhibits osteoclast activity, which reduces bone resorption and leads to a net increase in bone density. Option B is incorrect because raloxifene does not directly affect calcium absorption in the intestines. Its main action is on bone tissue. Option C is incorrect because raloxifene does not stimulate new bone formation by increasing osteoblast activity. Instead, it primarily inhibits bone resorption. Option D is incorrect because raloxifene does not directly affect calcium excretion by the kidneys. Its main mechanism is related to bone turnover and density. In an educational context, understanding the mechanism of action of medications used in osteoporosis is crucial for healthcare professionals to provide effective patient care. Knowing how raloxifene works allows for informed decision-making in prescribing and monitoring its effectiveness in managing osteoporosis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Tamoxifen increases the risk of venous thromboembolism, a serious side effect, so patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of blood clots. This information is crucial as early recognition and prompt treatment of blood clots can prevent complications. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because tamoxifen is not associated with causing weight gain, decreasing the risk of osteoporosis, or increasing the risk of breast cancer. Providing accurate information is essential for patient safety and understanding.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) HRT is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism, so patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of blood clots. The reason this is the correct answer is because hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been linked to an increased risk of venous thromboembolism, which includes conditions such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. It is crucial for the nurse to emphasize this risk to the patient so they can be vigilant for signs and symptoms such as leg pain, swelling, chest pain, and shortness of breath. Option B is incorrect as it discusses the benefits and risks of HRT related to mood, energy levels, and osteoporosis, but does not address the specific risk of venous thromboembolism. Option C is incorrect as it mentions the risk of developing diabetes, which is not typically associated with HRT use in the context of venous thromboembolism. Option D is incorrect as it focuses on the risk of breast cancer and the need for mammograms, which is not directly related to the question about venous thromboembolism. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of understanding the potential risks and side effects of medications, especially in patients with a history of specific conditions like venous thromboembolism. Nurses play a crucial role in patient education to ensure they are informed and empowered to monitor their health effectively.