If a patient is taking an ACE inhibitor, the nurse should monitor for signs of angioedema which include?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Angioedema is a potential adverse effect of ACE inhibitors. It is a serious condition involving swelling of the deeper layers of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, including the mucous membranes. Signs of angioedema can include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, which can lead to difficulty breathing (dyspnea) due to airway obstruction. It is important for the nurse to monitor for these signs and symptoms, as angioedema can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Vomiting, constipation, and epistaxis are not typical signs of angioedema associated with ACE inhibitors.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The normal range for therapeutic serum digoxin levels is typically considered to be 0.5-2 ng/mL. This range is where the drug digoxin effectively treats heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation and heart failure without causing toxicity. Levels below 0.5 ng/mL may be subtherapeutic, while levels above 2 ng/mL can lead to digoxin toxicity, characterized by symptoms like nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, and cardiac arrhythmias. Regular monitoring of serum digoxin levels is essential to ensure the drug is being used safely and effectively.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Cocaine is not an ester type of local anesthetic. While procaine, amethocaine, benzocaine, and etidocaine are all ester type local anesthetics, cocaine belongs to the group of local anesthetics known as ester anesthetics. Even though cocaine has local anesthetic properties, it is specifically classified as a "amide type" local anesthetic, not an ester type. Therefore, the correct choice among the given options is D. Cocaine.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Potency refers to the measure of drug activity in terms of the amount required to produce a particular effect. It is the strength or concentration of a drug that is needed to produce a specific effect. Potency is often expressed as the dose of a drug required to produce a certain response compared to a standard reference dose. It is an essential consideration in pharmacology as it helps determine the appropriate dosage needed for therapeutic effects and to avoid potential toxicity. Potency is distinct from efficacy, which is the ability of a drug to produce a desired effect regardless of the dose.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: St. John's wort is an herbal supplement known to interact with many medications, including venlafaxine (Effexor). It can reduce the effectiveness of venlafaxine by increasing its metabolism and clearance from the body, potentially leading to decreased therapeutic effects. Therefore, patients taking venlafaxine for social anxiety disorder should be advised to avoid St. John's wort to prevent any negative interactions and ensure the medication works effectively. It is essential for the nurse to inquire about the use of St. John's wort during the medication and dietary history assessment to prevent such interactions.