NR 293 Quiz 3

NR 293 Quiz 3

Student Name

Chamberlain University

NR-293: Pharmacology for Nursing Practice

Prof. Name:

Date

Pharmacology Quiz Review

In the first scenario, a patient reported black bowel movements after three days of oral iron therapy. The nurse should explain that this is an expected effect of the medication rather than a cause for concern (Ch. 54). For patients prescribed epoetin alfa (Epogen), such as Connie, a 58-year-old with chronic renal failure, monitoring hemoglobin and hematocrit levels is essential. A rapid rise or levels above 12 g/dL can result in hypertension or seizures (Ch. 22). Adverse effects associated with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors include fatigue, headaches, and dry cough, among others. During hypertensive emergencies, sodium nitroprusside is the drug of choice, while beta1 blockers used for heart failure and hypertension require careful observation for serious effects like edema and shortness of breath. Additionally, alpha blockers necessitate patient instructions to change positions slowly to avoid orthostatic hypotension.

Specific ACE inhibitors are selected based on patient needs, such as captopril for those with liver dysfunction, as it is not a prodrug. Long-acting ACE inhibitors like lisinopril are suitable for patients with adherence issues. In treating coronary artery spasms, calcium channel blockers are most effective. Antianginal drug therapy aims to increase blood flow to ischemic cardiac muscle. In cases of worsening chest pain, priority actions include calling emergency services immediately (Ch. 23–24). ACE inhibitors can cause hyperkalemia, making it critical to monitor laboratory findings. For patients on digoxin therapy, monitoring pulse and potassium levels is crucial as low potassium increases the risk of digoxin toxicity. The therapeutic effects of digoxin include increased urinary output and reduced fatigue, although its absorption can be hindered by bran consumption.

NR 293 Quiz 3

Anticoagulant therapy with drugs like enoxaparin requires adherence to specific guidelines to avoid complications like epidural hematoma. For patients taking warfarin, avoiding aspirin products reduces the risk of increased bleeding. The American Stroke Society recommends aspirin for stroke prevention. Thrombolytic therapy requires monitoring for signs of serious bleeding, such as hypotension or restlessness. In antilipemic therapy, liver disease is a contraindication, and side effects like muscle pain from statins require immediate attention. Niacin therapy side effects can be managed with pre-dose ibuprofen (Ch. 26–28).

When managing diuretic therapy, the nurse should educate patients about dietary restrictions, particularly with potassium-sparing diuretics. Morning administration is recommended to optimize diuretic effects. Loop diuretics produce the greatest volume of diuresis. In endocrine therapies, octreotide (Sandostatin) controls symptoms like diarrhea in carcinoid tumor patients, while desmopressin for diabetes insipidus reduces urine output. Levothyroxine requires weeks to take effect, and brand consistency is advised to avoid variability in efficacy (Ch. 30–32).

NR 293 Quiz 3

Insulin therapy’s immediate concern is hypoglycemia, presenting symptoms like sweating and confusion. Glucocorticoid therapy, preferred in the form of prednisone, poses risks like growth suppression in children. For Cushing’s syndrome, aminoglutethimide inhibits adrenal cortex function. Patients on alendronate (Fosamax) must follow specific administration guidelines to ensure effectiveness and avoid complications. Non-drowsy antihistamines like loratadine are preferred for certain patients, while guaifenesin’s positive outcomes include increased sputum production and improved breathing (Ch. 33–36).

Pharmacology Topics in Table Format