Warfarin is an anticoagulant that…

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication that works by inhibiting the production of certain clotting factors in the liver, specifically factors II, VII, IX, and X. By doing so, warfarin prevents the formation of new blood clots. It does not have the ability to dissolve existing blood clots, as that function is typically carried out by different types of medications known as thrombolytics. Warfarin is commonly prescribed to prevent and treat blood clots in conditions such as atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The first pass effect refers to the metabolism of a drug as it passes through the liver before reaching the systemic circulation. When a drug is absorbed from the gut lumen, it first enters the portal circulation where it is transported to the liver. In the liver, the drug may undergo metabolic processes that can reduce the amount of active drug reaching systemic circulation. This process can greatly affect the overall bioavailability and effectiveness of the drug. So, the metabolism of the drug en route from the gut lumen to the systemic circulation is primarily due to the first pass effect.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Pain is defined as an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage. It is a complex phenomenon involving both physical and emotional components. Pain serves as a protective mechanism, alerting the body to potential harm or injury, and prompting appropriate responses to prevent further damage. Pain can be acute or chronic, and may vary in intensity, duration, and location depending on the underlying cause. Analgesia refers to the relief of pain, inflammation is the body's response to injury or infection, and irritation typically refers to a mild reaction to something that is uncomfortable or annoying, but not necessarily indicating tissue damage.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Liver enzymes. Mefloquine hydrochloride, a medication used to treat malaria, is known to potentially cause hepatotoxicity as a side effect. Therefore, monitoring liver enzymes is crucial to assess the patient's liver function and detect any signs of liver damage early on. Option B) Blood glucose is not directly related to the administration of mefloquine hydrochloride for malaria treatment. Monitoring blood glucose levels is more relevant in conditions like diabetes. Option C) Sputum culture and sensitivity is primarily used to diagnose respiratory infections, not to monitor the effects of mefloquine on the liver. Option D) White blood cell count is not the most appropriate test to monitor liver function or assess for hepatotoxicity associated with mefloquine. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind ordering specific laboratory tests based on prescribed medications is crucial for nursing practice. This knowledge helps nurses provide safe and effective care by monitoring for potential medication side effects and complications. It also emphasizes the importance of assessing and interpreting lab results in the context of the patient's overall health condition.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Drugs that block both alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors are primarily used to treat cardiac-related conditions. Phentolamine, a nonselective alpha-adrenergic blocking agent, is used to treat extravasation of IV norepinephrine or dopamine and hypertension related to a pheochromocytoma. Alpha1-selective adrenergic blocking agents are used for treatment of hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia. The beta-adrenergic blocking agents are used to treat cardiovascular problems (hypertension, angina, migraine headaches) and to prevent reinfarction after myocardial infarction. Beta1-selective adrenergic blocking agents are used for treating hypertension, angina, and some cardiac arrhythmias. The nurse should understand the indications for these agents to ensure safe and effective administration.