A patient with diabetes insipidus is prescribed desmopressin. What is the primary purpose of this medication?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Desmopressin is a synthetic form of vasopressin used to replace the hormone in diabetes insipidus. The primary purpose is to decrease urine output by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys, thereby reducing excessive urination and preventing dehydration. Choice A is incorrect as desmopressin actually decreases urine output. Choice B is incorrect as desmopressin does not directly affect blood sugar levels. Choice D is incorrect as desmopressin does not primarily lower blood pressure.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Respiratory depression. Morphine sulfate is an opioid analgesic that can suppress the respiratory drive, leading to respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening. Monitoring respiratory status is crucial to prevent complications. Incorrect choices: A: Diarrhea - While constipation is a common side effect of opioid use, diarrhea is not a significant concern compared to respiratory depression. B: Hypertension - Morphine can cause hypotension rather than hypertension, so monitoring blood pressure for hypertension is not the priority. D: Increased urine output - Morphine can actually cause urinary retention, so increased urine output is not a key side effect to monitor.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Suppress thyroid hormone production. PTU is an antithyroid medication used to inhibit the synthesis of thyroid hormones, effectively suppressing their production. This helps to manage hyperthyroidism by reducing excessive levels of thyroid hormones in the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as PTU does not aim to increase hormone production, enhance iodine absorption, or stimulate the thyroid gland. Understanding the mechanism of action of PTU is crucial in recognizing its primary purpose in treating hyperthyroidism.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: B (Liver toxicity) Rationale: 1. Valproic acid is known to cause liver toxicity. 2. The nurse should monitor liver function tests regularly. 3. Signs of liver toxicity include jaundice, abdominal pain, and nausea. 4. Prompt detection is crucial to prevent serious complications. Summary: A: Hypertension - Not a common side effect of valproic acid. C: Hyperglycemia - More commonly associated with other medications like antipsychotics. D: Bradycardia - Not a typical side effect of valproic acid.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Relieve neuropathic pain. Gabapentin is commonly used to treat neuropathic pain by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain and nervous system. It is effective in conditions such as diabetic neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia. Choice B is incorrect because gabapentin does not have anti-inflammatory properties. Choice C is incorrect as gabapentin does not enhance opioid analgesia, but it can be used in conjunction with opioids for pain management. Choice D is incorrect as gabapentin is not indicated for cough suppression.