When reviewing the health history of a patient, the nurse will note that a potential contraindication to potassium supplements exists if the patient has which problem?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Patients with renal disease may have difficulty excreting potassium properly. If a patient with renal disease takes potassium supplements, it can lead to hyperkalemia, which is a high level of potassium in the blood. Hyperkalemia can be dangerous and may result in cardiac dysrhythmias and other serious complications. Therefore, patients with renal disease should avoid potassium supplements unless directed otherwise by their healthcare provider.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Methenamine is a urinary antiseptic that works by converting to formaldehyde in the urine, creating an inhospitable environment for bacterial growth. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is a sulfonamide antibiotic that can potentiate the formation of crystals in the urine (crystalluria). Therefore, giving methenamine and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole concurrently can increase the risk of crystalluria. It is important to avoid combining these two medications to prevent potential adverse effects on the urinary tract.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: It is important to remove the transdermal Nitroglycerine patch for 10-12 hours every night to prevent the development of tolerance. Tolerance can occur when the body becomes less responsive to the medication over time, reducing its effectiveness. By allowing a break in Nitroglycerine administration overnight, tolerance development can be minimized, ensuring the medication remains effective for the patient when needed. This nursing intervention helps to maintain the efficacy of Nitroglycerine in managing anginal attacks for the patient.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Albuterol is a medication commonly used as a bronchodilator. It works by relaxing the muscles in the airways and increasing airflow to the lungs. This medication is commonly used to treat conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory issues where bronchodilation is needed to ease breathing difficulties. Warfarin is an anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots, Lovastatin is a statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels, and Valproate is an anticonvulsant used to treat seizures.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Atropine belongs to the therapeutic class of antiarrhythmics. It is commonly used to treat and prevent certain types of abnormal heart rhythms, including bradycardia (slow heart rate) and heart block. Atropine works by blocking acetylcholine receptors in the heart, leading to an increase in heart rate and improved conduction of electrical impulses in the heart. This helps to restore normal heart rhythm and improve cardiac function in patients with specific arrhythmias.