Diazepam (Valium) is prescribed to a client with alcohol withdrawal. Which of the following statements made by the client indicates an understanding of the treatment regimen?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The statement "I'll have my physician lower my dosage once I start to feel okay" indicates an understanding of the treatment regimen because Diazepam is typically used as a short-term treatment for alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Once the client starts to feel okay, it is important to gradually taper off the medication under the guidance of a healthcare provider to prevent withdrawal symptoms. This demonstrates the client's understanding of the appropriate course of treatment and the need for medical supervision throughout the process.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin overdose. Heparin is an anticoagulant medication that works by inhibiting the action of thrombin and factor Xa. Protamine works by binding to heparin and neutralizing its anticoagulant effects. This helps to reverse the effects of heparin and control excessive bleeding in cases of overdose. It is important to administer protamine sulfate promptly to counteract the effects of heparin and prevent further bleeding complications. Options A, B, and D are not the correct antidotes for heparin overdose.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Taking niacin with a full glass of water on an empty stomach can help reduce the risk of flushing or pruritus, which are common side effects of niacin. Additionally, starting with a low initial dose and increasing gradually as tolerated can also help minimize these side effects. Niacin can cause vasodilation, leading to flushing and itching, so taking it with water and on an empty stomach can help alleviate these symptoms.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The nurse monitors the aPTT to check the effectiveness of heparin therapy in preventing and treating blood clots. Heparin acts by inhibiting the clotting cascade, specifically by enhancing the activity of antithrombin III, which inactivates clotting factors such as thrombin and factor Xa. The aPTT measures the intrinsic pathway of the clotting cascade, which is affected by heparin therapy. By monitoring the patient's aPTT levels, the nurse can ensure that the patient is within the therapeutic range for heparin therapy to be effective in preventing further clot formation. Monitoring bleeding times, PT/INR, or vitamin K levels is not typically done to assess heparin therapy effectiveness.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Valproate belongs to the category class of anticonvulsants, which are medications primarily used to treat seizures and epilepsy. Valproate is also used as a treatment for vascular headaches, such as migraines. It is not categorized as an anticoagulant, antianxiety medication (such as benzodiazepines), or a mood stabilizer.