To avoid a theophylline toxicity in her patients, a nurse should decrease the dosage of this medication when administering it concurrently with which of the following medications?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Cimetidine, ciprofloxacin, and other fluoroquinolone antibiotics. Theophylline, a methylxanthine drug, is primarily metabolized by the liver enzyme CYP1A2. Cimetidine and fluoroquinolone antibiotics are known to inhibit the activity of CYP1A2, leading to decreased metabolism of theophylline. This can result in increased theophylline levels in the blood, potentially leading to toxicity. Option B) Phenobarbital, phenytoin, and rifampin are enzyme-inducing medications that can increase the metabolism of theophylline, leading to subtherapeutic levels and reduced efficacy if taken concurrently. Option C) Albuterol and TCAs do not have significant interactions with theophylline that would require a dosage adjustment to prevent toxicity. Option D) None of the listed drugs pose a risk when taken simultaneously with methylxanthines is incorrect because, as explained above, certain medications can interact with theophylline and affect its metabolism. Understanding drug interactions is crucial for healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective patient care. It is essential to be aware of how different medications can affect each other's metabolism and potential for toxicity. By knowing which drugs interact with theophylline, nurses can make informed decisions about dosage adjustments to prevent adverse effects and ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) glucocorticoids can cause suppression of adrenal gland function. Beclomethasone is a glucocorticoid medication used to treat various inflammatory conditions, including asthma. Glucocorticoids, such as beclomethasone, can lead to suppression of the adrenal gland function by inhibiting the production of natural cortisol. This can result in adrenal insufficiency if the medication is abruptly stopped or if high doses are used for a prolonged period. Option B) b2 adrenergic agonists are not associated with adrenal gland suppression. These medications are commonly used as bronchodilators in asthma treatment but do not affect adrenal gland function. Option C) a 1 adrenergic antagonists are also not known to cause suppression of adrenal gland function. These medications are used for conditions like hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia but do not impact the adrenal glands. Option D) adrenal gland function is indeed affected by beclomethasone, as explained earlier. Therefore, this option is incorrect. Understanding the effects of medications on the body, like glucocorticoids on adrenal function, is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to their patients. Nurses need to monitor for signs of adrenal insufficiency in patients receiving glucocorticoid therapy and be aware of the potential impact on the adrenal glands to prevent complications. This knowledge ensures that nurses can advocate for appropriate monitoring and management to optimize patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Glucocorticoids. Glucocorticoids are anti-inflammatory medications that work gradually to promote decreased frequency and severity of exacerbations and acute asthma attacks. They exert their effects by suppressing the inflammatory response in the airways, reducing airway edema, mucus production, and bronchoconstriction over time. This mechanism of action makes them effective in managing chronic asthma and preventing asthma attacks. Option B) Methylxanthines are bronchodilators that work by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways to provide immediate relief in acute asthma attacks. They do not have the same anti-inflammatory properties or long-term benefits as glucocorticoids. Option C) Inhaled anticholinergics are also bronchodilators that provide immediate relief by blocking the action of acetylcholine on airway smooth muscle. They are not primarily used for their anti-inflammatory effects or for long-term asthma control. Option D) None of the options is correct because glucocorticoids are used for both immediate relief of acute asthma exacerbations and long-term control of asthma by reducing inflammation in the airways. It is important to understand the different mechanisms of action of anti-inflammatory medications in asthma management to provide optimal care for patients with asthma.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) concurrent use of potassium-depleting diuretics increases the risk of hypokalemia. Prednisone, a corticosteroid, can lead to sodium and fluid retention, causing edema. In the presence of edema, healthcare providers often prescribe potassium-depleting diuretics to manage fluid overload. This combination can result in potassium loss, leading to hypokalemia. Monitoring electrolyte levels, especially potassium, is crucial in patients taking Prednisone to prevent adverse effects like cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness associated with hypokalemia. Option B) is incorrect because NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are not directly related to electrolyte imbalances caused by Prednisone. NSAIDs are more commonly associated with gastrointestinal issues and renal effects. Option C) is incorrect as there is no direct interaction between glucocorticoids like Prednisone and hypoglycemic agents that would potentiate electrolyte depletion. Glucocorticoids primarily affect glucose metabolism and can lead to hyperglycemia in some cases. Understanding the potential interactions and side effects of medications is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective patient care. Monitoring electrolyte levels, recognizing drug interactions, and knowing the implications of different drug therapies are essential components of nursing practice when caring for patients on hematological drugs like Prednisone.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In caring for a patient with Cystic Fibrosis, understanding the pharmacological action of Acetylcysteine is crucial for providing effective care. The correct answer is A) thin and enhance the flow of secretions in the respiratory passages. Acetylcysteine is a mucolytic agent that works by breaking down disulfide bonds in mucoproteins, reducing the viscosity of mucus and facilitating its clearance, thus improving airflow and oxygenation in the respiratory passages of patients with conditions like Cystic Fibrosis. Option B) dilate the upper respiratory passageways is incorrect because Acetylcysteine does not have bronchodilator properties. Option C) agonize respiratory b2 adrenergic receptors is incorrect as Acetylcysteine does not act on adrenergic receptors. Option D) antagonize a1 cholinergic receptors is incorrect as Acetylcysteine does not have cholinergic antagonist properties. Educationally, understanding the pharmacological actions of medications used in respiratory conditions like Cystic Fibrosis is essential for nurses to provide safe and effective care. Knowing how Acetylcysteine works allows nurses to anticipate its effects, monitor for therapeutic outcomes, and recognize and manage any potential side effects or adverse reactions, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes.