The patient takes labetalol and is scheduled for surgery. The anesthesiologist plans to use halothane as one of the anesthetic agents. The nurse consults with the anesthesiologist to ensure awareness the patient’s medication history knowing that the combination of labetalol and halothane will have what effect?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: There is increased risk of excessive hypotension if any of these drugs is combined with volatile liquid general anesthetics such as enflurane, halothane, or isoflurane. The effectiveness of diabetic agents is increased, leading to hypoglycemia when such agents are used with these drugs. Carvedilol has been associated with potentially dangerous conduction system disturbances when combined with verapamil or diltiazem. Vomiting is not associated with this combination of drugs. The nurse should communicate the patient’s medication history to the anesthesiologist to ensure safe administration of anesthesia.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: It is important to educate the patient to take levothyroxine at the same time every day, preferably in the morning on an empty stomach. Consistency in timing helps to maintain stable levels of the medication in the body and optimize its effectiveness in balancing thyroid activity. This medication should not be taken with food, vitamins, or other medications that can interfere with its absorption. Regular thyroid tests are necessary to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and adjust the dosage as needed. If a patient has experienced a recent myocardial infarction or heart attack, it is crucial to consult with healthcare professionals before starting or continuing levothyroxine, as it can have implications on cardiovascular health. It is never advisable for patients to avoid consulting their healthcare professionals if they experience any adverse effects or have concerns about their medication.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Enteral route of drug administration involves placing the drug directly into the gastrointestinal tract (such as oral or rectal routes) for absorption into the systemic circulation. This route requires the drug to pass through the digestive system before being absorbed, allowing for slower and more sustained release of the medication compared to other routes. Examples of enteral drug administration include oral tablets, capsules, and liquids as well as rectal suppositories.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Consuming high amounts of foods rich in potassium, such as leafy green vegetables, can potentially decrease the effectiveness of digoxin. Digoxin works by helping the heart beat more strongly and regularly, but too much potassium in the body can interfere with its action. Therefore, patients taking digoxin are usually advised to avoid consuming excessive amounts of foods high in potassium, such as leafy green vegetables. It is recommended for patients on digoxin therapy to maintain a consistent level of potassium in their diet and follow their healthcare provider's guidance on dietary restrictions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The pain threshold is defined as the least stimulus intensity at which a subject perceives pain. It represents the point at which a person first acknowledges experiencing pain. Pain threshold varies among individuals and can be influenced by various factors such as genetics, emotional state, culture, and past experiences with pain. It is an important concept in understanding an individual's sensitivity to pain and can be different from their pain tolerance level, which refers to the maximum level of pain a person is willing to endure. Analgesia involves the relief of pain, nociception is the body's physiological response to noxious stimuli, and polymodal refers to nerve fibers that respond to multiple types of stimuli.