What is an important teaching point for a patient prescribed dabigatran for atrial fibrillation?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: B Rationale: 1. Dabigatran is an anticoagulant medication that comes in capsules, which should not be crushed or chewed to maintain its extended-release formulation. 2. Crushing or chewing the capsules can lead to an increased risk of bleeding due to rapid release of the medication. 3. Therefore, advising the patient not to crush or chew the capsules is crucial to ensure the safety and efficacy of dabigatran therapy. Summary: A: Taking with food is not necessary for dabigatran absorption. C: Green leafy vegetables are high in vitamin K, which can interfere with anticoagulant therapy. D: There is no need to avoid all dairy products while taking dabigatran.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Desmopressin is a synthetic form of vasopressin used to replace the hormone in diabetes insipidus. The primary purpose is to decrease urine output by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys, thereby reducing excessive urination and preventing dehydration. Choice A is incorrect as desmopressin actually decreases urine output. Choice B is incorrect as desmopressin does not directly affect blood sugar levels. Choice D is incorrect as desmopressin does not primarily lower blood pressure.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary action of amlodipine is to reduce blood pressure by relaxing and dilating blood vessels, leading to improved blood flow and lower blood pressure. This is achieved by blocking calcium channels in the blood vessels. Increasing heart rate (A), lowering cholesterol levels (C), and decreasing blood sugar levels (D) are not the primary actions of amlodipine and are not directly related to its mechanism of action in treating hypertension.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Respiratory depression. Morphine sulfate is an opioid analgesic that can suppress the respiratory drive, leading to respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening. Monitoring respiratory status is crucial to prevent complications. Incorrect choices: A: Diarrhea - While constipation is a common side effect of opioid use, diarrhea is not a significant concern compared to respiratory depression. B: Hypertension - Morphine can cause hypotension rather than hypertension, so monitoring blood pressure for hypertension is not the priority. D: Increased urine output - Morphine can actually cause urinary retention, so increased urine output is not a key side effect to monitor.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Suppress thyroid hormone production. PTU is an antithyroid medication used to inhibit the synthesis of thyroid hormones, effectively suppressing their production. This helps to manage hyperthyroidism by reducing excessive levels of thyroid hormones in the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as PTU does not aim to increase hormone production, enhance iodine absorption, or stimulate the thyroid gland. Understanding the mechanism of action of PTU is crucial in recognizing its primary purpose in treating hyperthyroidism.