What are the actions of the drug metformin?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Metformin has dual actions by decreasing hepatic glucose production and intestinal glucose absorption, which helps in reducing blood glucose levels, and it also increases sensitivity to insulin, aiding in its proper utilization within the body. Therefore, the correct answer is D, as metformin performs both of these actions.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In pharmacology, Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator primarily used to treat angina by dilating coronary arteries. The correct answer is D because nitroglycerin works by relaxing and dilating the blood vessels, particularly the coronary arteries, which increases blood flow to the heart muscle and reduces the workload on the heart. This action helps to relieve chest pain associated with angina. Option A, dilating the bronchi, is incorrect because nitroglycerin does not have a significant effect on the bronchi. Option B, reducing blood glucose, is incorrect as nitroglycerin does not directly impact blood glucose levels. Option C, reducing nausea, is incorrect as nitroglycerin is not indicated for this purpose. Understanding the action of nitroglycerin is crucial for nursing students and healthcare professionals as it is a commonly used medication in the management of angina and acute coronary syndromes. Knowing how nitroglycerin works helps in providing safe and effective care to patients with cardiovascular conditions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Nitroglycerin is primarily used for the relief or prevention of anginal attacks. It works by dilating blood vessels, increasing blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle, thereby relieving chest pain caused by angina. The medication is not indicated for diuresis, antiemetic effects, or anxiety relief.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Warfarin is classified as an anticoagulant, which means its primary function is to prevent the formation of blood clots. By inhibiting the synthesis of certain clotting factors in the liver, warfarin reduces the blood's ability to clot, making it an important medication in preventing conditions like strokes and deep vein thrombosis.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pharmacology, when administering Lithium, a life-threatening side effect to be aware of is seizures. This is because Lithium can lead to neurotoxicity, manifesting as seizures, particularly if the serum levels of Lithium are elevated. Seizures are a serious medical emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent further complications. Regarding the other options: A) Erythema: While skin rash can be a side effect of Lithium, it is not typically life-threatening unless it progresses to a severe allergic reaction like Stevens-Johnson syndrome. B) Pancreatitis: Lithium can affect the pancreas, but pancreatitis is not a common or immediate life-threatening side effect associated with Lithium use. D) Headache: Headache is a common side effect of many medications, including Lithium, but it is not typically life-threatening unless it is a symptom of a more severe condition. Educationally, understanding the potential life-threatening side effects of medications like Lithium is crucial for healthcare providers to ensure patient safety. It emphasizes the importance of monitoring patients closely, conducting regular assessments, and promptly addressing any concerning symptoms to prevent adverse outcomes.