What does cromolyn sodium act to do?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pharmacology, cromolyn sodium is classified as a mast cell stabilizer. The correct answer is C) Prevent the release of histamine. Cromolyn sodium works by inhibiting the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators from mast cells, making it effective in preventing allergic reactions and asthma attacks. By stabilizing mast cells, cromolyn sodium helps to reduce the inflammatory response in conditions like asthma, allergic rhinitis, and allergic conjunctivitis. Option A) Combat respiratory infection is incorrect because cromolyn sodium does not have any antimicrobial properties, and it is not used to treat infections. Option B) Constrict smooth muscle in the bronchial tree is incorrect because cromolyn sodium actually works to relax smooth muscle in the airways, helping to prevent bronchoconstriction in conditions like asthma. Option D) Terminate an asthmatic attack is incorrect because while cromolyn sodium can help prevent asthma attacks, it is not used to treat an ongoing attack. Understanding the mechanism of action of pharmacological agents like cromolyn sodium is crucial for nurses and healthcare professionals to provide safe and effective care to patients with respiratory conditions. By grasping how medications work, healthcare providers can make informed decisions about treatment options and educate patients on the rationale behind their prescribed medications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the most difficult activity for Mr. Singer to modify would be to keep the stoma covered (Option D). A stoma is an opening on the abdomen that allows waste to exit the body after certain types of surgeries, such as a colostomy or ileostomy. The rationale behind why keeping the stoma covered would be challenging for Mr. Singer is because it is a constant, physical aspect of his body that requires ongoing care and attention. Unlike the other options which involve periodic actions like taking medication or wearing a bracelet, keeping the stoma covered is a continuous task that demands vigilance to prevent infection, irritation, or other complications. Regarding the other options: - Option A (Cover mouth when coughing and sneezing): This is a basic hygiene practice that can be easily modified by Mr. Singer with education and practice. - Option B (Take the prescribed medication with meals): With proper education and reminders, Mr. Singer can adjust his routine to accommodate taking medication with meals. - Option C (Wear the Medic Alert bracelet): Wearing a Medic Alert bracelet is a simple action that Mr. Singer can incorporate into his daily routine without significant difficulty. Understanding the challenges patients face in managing stoma care is crucial for healthcare providers, as it involves not only physical tasks but also psychological and emotional adjustments. Education, support, and resources play a vital role in helping patients like Mr. Singer adapt to these changes in their lives effectively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option C, "He smokes two packs of cigarettes a day," which is most indicative of lung cancer. Smoking is a well-established major risk factor for developing lung cancer. It is associated with the majority of lung cancer cases, making it a crucial aspect of Mr. Ross's health history to consider when assessing his risk for lung cancer. Option A, "A positive Tine test," is not indicative of lung cancer. A positive Tine test typically indicates exposure to tuberculosis, not lung cancer. Option B, "He is a vegetarian," is not directly related to lung cancer risk. While a healthy diet is important for overall health, being a vegetarian does not specifically indicate an increased risk of lung cancer. Option D, "He last visited a physician 2 years ago," is not directly related to lung cancer risk assessment. Regular medical check-ups are important for early detection and prevention of various health conditions, but the timing of a previous doctor's visit does not provide specific information about lung cancer risk. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of recognizing significant risk factors for specific diseases, such as the strong correlation between smoking and lung cancer. Understanding the impact of lifestyle choices on health outcomes is essential in pharmacology and medical-surgical nursing practice to provide comprehensive care and promote health promotion and disease prevention strategies.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In teaching Mr. Ross about skin care of the irradiated area, the nurse should include the action of keeping the area dry and open to air (Option C). This is because irradiated skin is often sensitive and prone to damage. Allowing the area to remain dry and open to air promotes healing, reduces the risk of infection, and prevents further irritation. Moisture from ointments or lotions (Option A) may trap heat and exacerbate skin damage. Washing with soap and water (Option B) can further irritate the skin due to potential chemicals in the soap. Massaging the area and exposing it to sunlight (Option D) can lead to increased damage and delayed healing, as irradiated skin is extremely sensitive to touch and sunlight exposure can worsen the condition. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to understand the specific needs of patients undergoing radiation therapy and to provide accurate and evidence-based teaching to promote optimal skin care and healing. By explaining the rationale behind proper skin care practices, nurses can empower patients like Mr. Ross to actively participate in their care and promote positive outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pharmacology, scheduling the administration of analgesics plays a crucial role in achieving optimal pain management. The correct answer, option B) Every 3-4 hours, is based on the pharmacokinetics of analgesic drugs. By administering analgesics at regular intervals within this range, a more consistent and uniform level of pain relief can be maintained. Option A) Every 2 hours may lead to potential overdosing and increased risk of adverse effects without significant added benefits in pain relief. Option C) Every 6 hours could result in gaps where pain relief is inadequate, leading to fluctuations in pain intensity. Option D) Every 7 hours extends the dosing interval too far, causing a decline in analgesic concentration in the body, resulting in inadequate pain control. Educationally, understanding the pharmacokinetics and dosing schedules of analgesics is essential for healthcare professionals to provide safe and effective pain management for patients. By selecting the appropriate dosing interval based on the drug's half-life and therapeutic effect, healthcare providers can ensure consistent pain relief while minimizing the risk of adverse effects.