The client has been prescribed gemfibrozil. The nurse explains the function of the drug as what?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Gemfibrozil is a medication classified as a fibrate that primarily works by lowering triglyceride levels in the blood. The correct answer is D) It lowers triglyceride levels. The drug achieves this by increasing the activity of lipoprotein lipase, an enzyme that breaks down triglycerides. By reducing triglyceride levels, gemfibrozil can help decrease the risk of conditions such as pancreatitis and cardiovascular disease. Option A) It reduces cholesterol levels is incorrect because while gemfibrozil can have some effect on lowering LDL cholesterol levels, its primary mechanism of action is focused on triglycerides. Option B) It destabilizes cholesterol plaques is incorrect as this is not a known function of gemfibrozil. Destabilizing cholesterol plaques is more commonly associated with statin medications. Option C) It prevents a recurrent MI is incorrect as while lowering triglyceride levels may indirectly reduce the risk of another heart attack, gemfibrozil is not primarily indicated for preventing recurrent myocardial infarctions. In an educational context, it is crucial for healthcare professionals to have a clear understanding of the mechanisms of action of different medications to ensure safe and effective patient care. Understanding the specific function of gemfibrozil in reducing triglyceride levels helps nurses and other healthcare providers educate patients on the purpose and potential benefits of this medication.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Pupillary dilation. Cocaine is a potent stimulant that works by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. When cocaine is ingested, it causes the pupils to dilate due to its effects on the autonomic nervous system. This dilation is a classic sign of cocaine use. Option A) Bradycardia and B) Hypotension are unlikely effects of cocaine use. Cocaine typically causes tachycardia (increased heart rate) and hypertension (increased blood pressure) due to its stimulant properties. These effects are more common with cocaine use rather than bradycardia or hypotension. Option D) Vasodilation of peripheral vessels is also an incorrect choice. Cocaine primarily causes vasoconstriction, leading to increased blood pressure and reduced blood flow to certain areas of the body. Vasodilation is not a common effect of cocaine use. Educationally, understanding the physiological effects of cocaine on the cardiovascular and nervous systems is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those working in emergency rooms or addiction treatment centers. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of cocaine intoxication, such as pupillary dilation, tachycardia, and hypertension, can aid in providing appropriate and timely interventions for individuals experiencing cocaine-related issues.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Partial thromboplastin time (PTT) because streptokinase is a thrombolytic medication used to dissolve blood clots in conditions like myocardial infarction. PTT measures the effectiveness of the clotting factors involved in the intrinsic pathway. Monitoring PTT is crucial during streptokinase infusion to ensure therapeutic levels are achieved without causing excessive bleeding. Option A) Hemoglobin and B) Hematocrit are measures of red blood cells and are not directly affected by streptokinase therapy. Platelet count (Option D) is important in clot formation but is not the primary parameter to monitor during streptokinase therapy. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind monitoring specific blood parameters during drug therapy is essential for healthcare providers to ensure patient safety and optimize treatment outcomes. By correlating drug actions with monitoring parameters, healthcare professionals can make informed decisions and provide appropriate care tailored to individual patient needs.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: ACE inhibitors are a class of medications commonly used in the management of hypertension and heart failure. The correct answer, option D: "May cause cough," is the most appropriate choice because ACE inhibitors are known to cause a dry, persistent cough as a side effect. This is due to the accumulation of bradykinin caused by inhibiting the enzyme ACE. It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of this side effect as it can impact patient adherence to the medication regimen and quality of life. Option A: "Are positive inotropes" is incorrect because ACE inhibitors do not directly affect the contractility of the heart muscle. Instead, they primarily work by dilating blood vessels to lower blood pressure. Option B: "Increase afterload" is incorrect because ACE inhibitors actually reduce afterload by dilating blood vessels, which decreases the resistance the heart has to pump against. Option C: "Increase preload" is incorrect because ACE inhibitors do not directly increase preload. They may have mild effects on preload due to their vasodilatory properties, but their primary mechanism of action is not related to increasing preload. Understanding the side effects and mechanisms of action of medications like ACE inhibitors is crucial for healthcare professionals in providing safe and effective care to patients with cardiovascular conditions. Being able to recognize and manage potential side effects, such as cough with ACE inhibitors, is essential for optimizing patient outcomes and medication adherence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is A) Prazosin. Prazosin is a selective α1-adrenergic receptor blocker that acts on arterioles and venules to produce its antihypertensive effect. By blocking α1-adrenoceptors, prazosin causes vasodilation leading to decreased peripheral vascular resistance and ultimately lowering blood pressure. Option B) Clonidine is an α2-adrenergic receptor agonist, which acts centrally to reduce sympathetic outflow, while options C) Minoxidil and D) Hydralazine are direct vasodilators that act by mechanisms other than blocking α1-adrenoceptors. In an educational context, understanding the mechanisms of action of antihypertensive drugs is crucial for healthcare professionals to make informed decisions regarding drug selection for patients with hypertension. Knowing how each drug affects the cardiovascular system helps in tailoring treatment plans to individual patient needs, considering factors such as comorbidities and potential side effects. Therefore, grasping the specific actions of drugs like Prazosin can aid in optimal patient care and management of cardiovascular conditions.