The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the use of three-step analgesic ladder when deciding on pain management. In order of first choice to second choice to third choice, the following drug categories are used:

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Question 1 of 5

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the use of three-step analgesic ladder when deciding on pain management. In order of first choice to second choice to third choice, the following drug categories are used:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Nonopioids, opioids, and adjuvant agents. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends this three-step analgesic ladder for pain management. Firstly, nonopioids such as NSAIDs are recommended as the initial step for mild to moderate pain. They work by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, reducing inflammation and pain. Secondly, opioids are added for moderate to severe pain that is not controlled with nonopioids alone. Opioids act on the central nervous system to alter the perception of pain. Finally, adjuvant agents like anticonvulsants or antidepressants are used to enhance analgesic effects or manage specific types of pain like neuropathic pain. Option A is incorrect as it does not include adjuvant agents in the third step, which are essential in managing certain types of pain effectively. Option B is incorrect as opioid antagonists are used for reversing opioid overdose, not as part of the WHO analgesic ladder. Option D is incorrect as it includes NSAIDs in the third step, which is not in line with the WHO's recommendations. Understanding the WHO analgesic ladder is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers to effectively manage pain in patients, ensuring appropriate and individualized treatment plans to improve quality of life and patient outcomes.

Question 2 of 5

Which type of stress helps individuals pursue goals and solve problems?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology, understanding stress and its impact on health is crucial. The correct answer is C) Eustress. Eustress is a positive form of stress that helps individuals pursue goals and solve problems. It is often associated with motivation, focus, and a sense of accomplishment. In pharmacology, stress can influence the body's response to medications and overall health outcomes. Option A) Energy stress is not a recognized term in stress theory and does not accurately describe the type of stress that helps individuals pursue goals. Option B) Active stress is a vague term that does not specifically address the positive nature of stress that aids in goal achievement. Option D) Distress is a negative form of stress that can hinder goal pursuit and problem-solving abilities, unlike eustress which has a positive impact. Educationally, understanding the different types of stress is essential for healthcare professionals as stress can impact patient outcomes and medication responses. Recognizing eustress as a beneficial form of stress can help healthcare providers support patients in achieving their health goals and managing stress-related conditions effectively.

Question 3 of 5

What interventions can the nurse use to decrease the client's anxiety?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and nursing care, it is crucial for nurses to understand how different interventions can impact a client's anxiety levels. In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Reduce carbohydrate consumption. Carbohydrates can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels, which can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and nervousness in some individuals. By reducing carbohydrate consumption, the nurse can help stabilize the client's blood sugar levels, potentially leading to a decrease in anxiety. Option A) Increase protein intake is incorrect because while protein is essential for overall health, there is no direct evidence linking increased protein intake to a reduction in anxiety levels. Option C) Drink more water is incorrect in the context of decreasing anxiety. While staying hydrated is important for general health, simply drinking more water is unlikely to significantly impact anxiety levels. Option D) Take vitamin supplements is also incorrect in this context. While vitamin deficiencies can impact mental health, simply taking vitamin supplements may not directly address or reduce anxiety levels without targeting specific deficiencies. Educationally, it is important for nurses to be knowledgeable about the impact of diet and nutrition on mental health, including anxiety. Understanding the physiological effects of different food groups can help nurses develop holistic care plans that address both physical and mental well-being in their clients.

Question 4 of 5

Why should the nurse assess current weight status and recent weight fluctuations in a client with anxiety?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the rationale behind assessing weight status and fluctuations in clients with anxiety is crucial for providing holistic care. The correct answer, option D, "Some clients may react to stress by overeating," is supported by the fact that anxiety can lead to emotional eating as a coping mechanism. This behavior can result in weight gain or fluctuations, which are important to monitor as they can impact the client's overall health. Option A is incorrect because weight fluctuations in clients with anxiety are not directly indicative of impaired kidney function. Anxiety can affect appetite and eating habits, leading to weight changes for various reasons beyond kidney function. Option B is incorrect as not all clients with anxiety necessarily lose weight rapidly. Weight changes can vary depending on individual responses to stress and anxiety. Option C is incorrect because while some antianxiety drugs may have side effects like increased appetite, it is not a universal response and does not fully explain the importance of assessing weight fluctuations in clients with anxiety. Educationally, understanding the relationship between anxiety, stress, eating behaviors, and weight fluctuations is essential for nurses to provide comprehensive care. By assessing weight status and changes in clients with anxiety, nurses can better identify potential health risks, provide appropriate interventions, and support clients in managing their mental and physical well-being.

Question 5 of 5

Which drug fits within the category of anxiolytic drugs for obsessive-compulsive disorder?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the correct answer is D) Xanax. Xanax, also known as alprazolam, belongs to the class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which are commonly used as anxiolytics to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and related disorders, including OCD. Benzodiazepines work by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, leading to a calming and sedative effect that can help reduce anxiety and compulsive behaviors in individuals with OCD. Regarding why the other options are incorrect: A) Lopressor and B) Tenormin are both beta-blockers (metoprolol and atenolol, respectively) primarily used to treat cardiovascular conditions like hypertension and angina. These drugs do not possess anxiolytic properties and are not indicated for treating OCD. C) Inderal, also known as propranolol, is another beta-blocker mainly used for cardiovascular conditions. Like Lopressor and Tenormin, Inderal does not target the anxiety and obsessive-compulsive symptoms seen in OCD. Educational Context: Understanding the pharmacological treatment options for mental health disorders like OCD is crucial for healthcare professionals, including nurses and pharmacists. Knowing the mechanisms of action and appropriate use of anxiolytic medications, such as benzodiazepines like Xanax, can help healthcare providers make informed decisions when managing patients with OCD. By differentiating between medications that target anxiety symptoms and those that do not, healthcare professionals can provide more effective and tailored care to individuals with OCD.

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