What classification of drug is Penicillin?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pharmacology, Penicillin belongs to the classification of antibiotics, making option C the correct answer. Penicillin is a widely used antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial cell death. It is effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria and is commonly prescribed for various infections. Option A, Antiarrhythmics, are medications used to treat irregular heart rhythms, and Penicillin does not fall under this category. Option B, Anticonvulsants, are drugs used to manage seizures, which is unrelated to the mechanism of action of Penicillin. Option D, Mood stabilizers, are used to manage conditions like bipolar disorder and do not have any relationship to Penicillin's antibacterial properties. Understanding the classification of drugs like Penicillin is crucial for healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about drug therapy, prevent antibiotic resistance, and provide optimal patient care. It is essential to differentiate between drug classes to ensure safe and effective pharmacological interventions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Offering children choices empowers them and can help in gaining cooperation, especially when it comes to taking medications. By providing options like taking the medication with juice or water, the child feels a sense of control and may be more willing to cooperate. This approach respects the child's autonomy and can make the experience more positive for both the child and the healthcare provider.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct recommendation for a client using over-the-counter calcium carbonate antacid is to drink a glass of water after taking the medication (Option D). Calcium carbonate antacids work by neutralizing stomach acid, and taking them with water helps enhance their effectiveness by promoting dissolution and absorption in the stomach. Option A is incorrect because decreasing bulk in the diet would not counteract diarrhea, which can be a common side effect of calcium carbonate antacids. Option B is incorrect as taking the medication with dairy products can actually decrease its absorption due to the presence of other minerals that compete for absorption. Option C is unrelated to the use of calcium carbonate antacids. From an educational perspective, it is crucial for nurses to understand the appropriate administration guidelines for medications to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes for patients. Educating patients on the correct way to take their medications can significantly impact their treatment effectiveness and overall health outcomes. It is important to emphasize the rationale behind specific recommendations to empower patients in managing their own health effectively.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Patients with chronic kidney disease are often prescribed epoetin alfa to treat anemia. Epoetin alfa stimulates red blood cell production, increasing the body's demand for iron to support this process. Therefore, clients taking epoetin alfa should be advised to increase their dietary intake of iron-rich foods to meet the increased demand and prevent iron deficiency anemia.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pharmacology, it is crucial to understand the principles of corticosteroid therapy to provide safe and effective care to clients. In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Adrenocortical insufficiency. When a client abruptly stops taking prednisone, a corticosteroid, after prolonged use, it can suppress the body's natural production of cortisol. Cortisol is essential for various physiological functions, including maintaining blood pressure, regulating metabolism, and responding to stress. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to adrenocortical insufficiency, as the adrenal glands may not be able to produce enough cortisol to meet the body's needs, resulting in potentially life-threatening complications. The incorrect options can be explained as follows: A) Hyperglycemia: While corticosteroids like prednisone can indeed increase blood sugar levels, abrupt discontinuation is more likely to lead to adrenocortical insufficiency rather than hyperglycemia. C) Severe dehydration: Discontinuing prednisone gradually helps prevent adrenal suppression, not dehydration. D) Rebound pulmonary congestion: This is not a common adverse effect associated with corticosteroid discontinuation but rather may occur with the use of certain medications for asthma. Educationally, it is important to teach students and healthcare professionals about the significance of tapering corticosteroid doses gradually to allow the body's adrenal glands to resume cortisol production safely. Understanding the mechanism of action and potential adverse effects of corticosteroids is essential in managing patients effectively and ensuring optimal outcomes in clinical practice.