A pregnant woman is experiencing hypertension. The nurse knows that which drug is commonly used for a pregnant patient who is experiencing hypertension?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Methyldopa is the preferred antihypertensive medication for pregnant women experiencing hypertension. It has been extensively studied and considered safe for both the mother and the fetus. Methyldopa has been shown to effectively lower blood pressure in pregnant women without causing harm to the developing fetus. Other antihypertensive medications, such as Enalapril (Vasote) and Hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL), are contraindicated during pregnancy as they can cause harm to the fetus. Mannitol (Osmitrol) is an osmotic diuretic primarily used for reducing intracranial pressure or treating cerebral edema, not for hypertension in pregnancy. Therefore, Methyldopa is the right choice for a pregnant patient with hypertension.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. When a medication has a half-life, it refers to the time it takes for half of the dose to be eliminated from the bloodstream. Half-life is an important pharmacokinetic parameter which helps determine the dosing interval and duration of action of a drug. By understanding the half-life of a medication, healthcare providers can make informed decisions regarding dosing schedules to maintain therapeutic levels in the body.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Morphine undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver, which reduces its oral bioavailability significantly.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Nystatin treats oral thrush by direct mucosal contact, requiring the tablet to dissolve in the mouth for prolonged exposure before swallowing. This maximizes antifungal action against Candida. Using a straw might apply to suspensions but isn't standard for discoloration prevention, which isn't a primary issue. Crushing and mixing with juice reduces contact time, decreasing efficacy. Swallowing whole bypasses the infection site, rendering it ineffective. The nurse's best plan educates on dissolving the tablet, aligning with nystatin's topical mechanism, ensuring treatment success and preventing recurrence, making A the optimal instruction.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Neonates have an immature blood-brain barrier, increasing opioid penetration, not blocking it, so that's false. Spinal analgesia involves mu, delta, and kappa receptors, not just one type, making that false. Depressed CO2 response is the most reliable sign of opioid-induced respiratory depression, a true statement, reflecting medullary suppression. Tolerance to miosis develops minimally, unlike analgesia, so that's false. Addison's patients are hypersensitive to opioids due to cortisol lack. The CO2 response is a key monitoring parameter in opioid overdose.