When reviewing a client's health record, a healthcare professional notes that the client is experiencing episodes of hypokalemia. Which of the following medications should be identified as a cause of the client's hypokalemia?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Furosemide. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that works in the ascending loop of Henle to inhibit sodium and chloride reabsorption, leading to increased urinary excretion of these electrolytes, including potassium. This mechanism can cause hypokalemia, as potassium is also excreted in the urine alongside sodium and chloride. Option A) Captopril and B) Lisinopril are ACE inhibitors, which do not typically cause hypokalemia. Instead, they may lead to hyperkalemia by inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which normally promotes potassium excretion. Option D) Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that actually helps retain potassium by antagonizing the aldosterone receptor in the distal tubule, thus reducing potassium excretion. In an educational context, understanding the mechanisms of action of different classes of medications is crucial for pharmacology students and healthcare professionals to make informed decisions regarding drug therapy and anticipate potential adverse effects like electrolyte imbalances. This knowledge is essential for safe medication administration and effective patient care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the client to notify the provider if they develop a persistent cough. A persistent cough is a common adverse effect of Captopril and other ACE inhibitors. It is essential for the client to inform their healthcare provider promptly if this side effect occurs, as it may indicate a potentially serious issue that needs medical attention.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the appropriate administration and instructions for medications is crucial to ensure optimal therapeutic effects and patient safety. In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Take the medication at bedtime. Ranitidine is a histamine-2 blocker commonly prescribed to reduce stomach acid production and treat conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and ulcers. Taking it at bedtime is essential because stomach acid secretion is highest during the night, so administering the medication before bedtime helps control acid levels when they are most likely to cause issues. Option A) Take the medication with an antacid is incorrect because antacids can actually decrease the effectiveness of ranitidine by altering the pH balance in the stomach. Option B) Avoid drinking coffee while taking this medication is incorrect as coffee consumption does not have a direct interaction with ranitidine. However, caffeine can potentially aggravate acid reflux symptoms in some individuals. Option D) Stop the medication if you develop a headache is incorrect because a headache is not a common or severe side effect of ranitidine. It is important for the nurse to educate the client on common side effects to monitor and report, such as gastrointestinal disturbances or allergic reactions. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding medication administration schedules based on the pharmacokinetics and therapeutic effects of the drug. It also emphasizes the need for nurses to provide clear and accurate instructions to patients to promote medication adherence and safety.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: To prevent Otitis Externa, it is important to remove water from the ears after showering or swimming. This helps reduce the risk of moisture buildup in the ear canal, which can lead to infection. Cleaning the ear with a cotton-tipped swab daily can actually increase the risk of injury or infection. Placing earplugs in the ears when sleeping at night may trap moisture and promote bacterial growth. Using a cool water irrigation solution to remove earwax is not recommended as it can disrupt the natural balance of the ear canal.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Fried chicken. Ramelteon is a medication used for treating insomnia by regulating sleep-wake cycles. Fried foods, like fried chicken, are high in fat content, which can slow down the absorption of Ramelteon in the body, leading to a delay in its therapeutic effects. Therefore, it is important for the client to avoid consuming fried foods to ensure the medication works effectively. Regarding the incorrect options: A) Baked potato: Baked potato is a starchy food and does not have a direct interaction with Ramelteon. C) Whole-grain bread: Whole-grain bread is a healthy carbohydrate and does not interfere with the action of Ramelteon. D) Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C and do not impact the effectiveness of Ramelteon. Educationally, understanding drug-food interactions is crucial for safe and effective medication management. Patients need to be aware of which foods can interfere with their medication to ensure optimal treatment outcomes. Nurses play a vital role in educating clients about these interactions to promote medication adherence and safety.