Furosemide (Lasix) is prescribed for a patient who is about to be discharged, and the nurse provides instructions to the patient about the medication. Which statement by the nurse is correct?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct statement by the nurse is D. "Be sure to change positions slowly and rise slowly after sitting or lying so as to prevent dizziness and possible fainting because of blood pressure changes." This instruction is important for patients taking furosemide (Lasix) because this medication can cause changes in blood pressure, especially when changing positions quickly. By rising slowly, the patient can minimize the risk of dizziness or fainting. This precaution is crucial to ensure patient safety while taking furosemide.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Methanol, a toxic alcohol, is metabolized by alcohol dehydrogenase into formaldehyde, then by aldehyde dehydrogenase into formic acid, causing severe metabolic acidosis and blindness via optic nerve damage. This initial step—formation of formaldehyde—is the critical toxic event, distinguishing methanol poisoning from ethanol's safer metabolism. Nephrotoxicity isn't primary; formic acid affects mitochondria and eyes more. Hypotension and vomiting occur secondary to acidosis but aren't the defining process. Glycolic acid is a metabolite of ethylene glycol, not methanol. Methanol inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase minimally; its danger lies in metabolite accumulation. Formaldehyde production initiates the cascade, making it the most direct and accurate consequence of methanol ingestion.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Lithium is primarily used in the treatment of bipolar disorder to decrease the incidence of acute manic episodes. It helps to stabilize mood and prevent the extreme highs (manic episodes) associated with bipolar disorder. Lithium is not used to decrease blood pressure, seizure activity, or increase urinary output.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The reticular activating system (RAS) in the brainstem regulates sleep-wake cycles, promoting alertness or rest, per neurophysiology. The cortex processes thought, not cycles. The limbic system drives emotion, not sleep directly. The cerebellum coordinates movement. RAS's role is central, controlling consciousness states.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Nystatin is an antifungal used for oral candidiasis (thrush), and its effectiveness depends on proper administration. For oral infections, the medication must remain in contact with the affected mucosal surfaces as long as possible. Dissolving the tablet in the mouth ensures prolonged exposure to the fungus, allowing it to act locally before swallowing, which is the recommended method for tablets or lozenges. Using a straw might apply to suspensions but isn't standard for preventing discoloration, which isn't a primary concern with nystatin. Crushing and mixing with juice alters the drug's intended delivery, reducing contact time with the infection site. Swallowing whole bypasses the oral mucosa entirely, rendering it ineffective for thrush. Thus, choice A aligns with nystatin's mechanism, ensuring optimal therapeutic outcomes through direct mucosal contact.