An 86-year-old patient is being discharged to home on digitalis therapy and has very little information regarding the medication. Which statement best reflects a realistic outcome of patient teaching activities?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Patient education is a critical component of nursing care, especially for elderly patients who may have difficulty understanding complex medication regimens. A realistic outcome for an 86-year-old patient and their caregiver (daughter) is that they can state the proper way to take the drug. This ensures that the medication is taken correctly, reducing the risk of toxicity or underdosing. While teaching about adverse effects and symptoms of toxicity is important, expecting the patient to recall all symptoms may be unrealistic due to age-related cognitive decline. The most practical and achievable goal is ensuring the patient and caregiver understand the proper administration of the medication.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Glargine (Lantus) is classified as a long-acting insulin, providing a slow, steady release of insulin over an extended period, making it suitable for basal insulin requirements. It has a duration of action that can last up to 24 hours, helping to maintain more stable blood sugar levels throughout the day.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) are often used in the management of migraine headaches due to their ability to help prevent or reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines. They work by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain, which can help in controlling migraine symptoms. While beta-blockers are also sometimes used in migraine prevention, anti-epileptic drugs are more commonly associated with migraine treatment.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Acetaminophen is the correct answer as it is not classified as an opioid or NSAID. Acetaminophen is considered a non-opioid analgesic, which means it works by a different mechanism than opioids and NSAIDs to relieve pain and reduce fever. Morphine, hydromorphone, and ibuprofen, on the other hand, are classified as opioids or NSAIDs.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When educating a patient taking sennosides, it is important to emphasize that these laxatives should be used for short-term therapy only. The medication does not address hypothyroidism, so this information is not relevant. Patients should be informed that the color of their urine may change to various colors like pink, red, violet, yellow, or brown, which is a common side effect of sennosides. It is advisable to incorporate other forms of bowel regulation alongside sennosides for optimal bowel health.