A client complains about the taste of the sublingual nitro-glycerine and admits that he swallows it rather than holding it under his tongue. The nurse explains that sublingual medications:
should not be swallowed because it alters the absorption potential.
can be held against the roof of the mouth with the tongue to reduce taste.
can be inserted rectally without loss of absorption potential.
can be taken between the cheek and tongue to diminish taste.
The Correct Answer is A
A) Should not be swallowed because it alters the absorption potential: This is the correct explanation. Sublingual medications, such as nitroglycerin, are designed to be absorbed quickly through the mucous membranes under the tongue. Swallowing the medication can significantly reduce its effectiveness and delay absorption, which is crucial for medications used in acute situations like angina.
B) Can be held against the roof of the mouth with the tongue to reduce taste: This option is not correct. Holding the medication against the roof of the mouth does not facilitate the intended sublingual absorption and may not significantly mitigate the taste issue. The medication needs to dissolve under the tongue for effective absorption.
C) Can be inserted rectally without loss of absorption potential: This option is incorrect. Sublingual medications are formulated for absorption through the sublingual mucosa and would not provide the same effects if administered rectally. Different routes of administration have different absorption profiles.
D) Can be taken between the cheek and tongue to diminish taste: While this may help with taste, it does not achieve the desired sublingual absorption. For optimal effect, the medication should be held under the tongue, where it can dissolve and be absorbed directly into the bloodstream.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Cerumen or drainage is occluding the ear canal: While cerumen or drainage can cause discomfort, it is less likely to be the direct cause of dizziness following the administration of eardrops. Dizziness is more commonly associated with changes in pressure or temperature in the ear.
B) Too much pressure was applied during instillation, with subsequent injury to the eardrum: Although excessive pressure can lead to injury, the immediate symptom of dizziness after eardrop administration is more closely related to other factors, particularly temperature or positioning.
C) The client failed to remain in the side-lying position long enough: This option is incorrect because not maintaining the position may affect medication absorption but is unlikely to cause immediate dizziness and nausea.
D) The medication was too cold when it was administered: This is the most likely cause of the dizziness. Cold eardrops can cause a rapid change in temperature within the ear canal, potentially stimulating the vestibular system and leading to dizziness or vertigo. It is generally recommended to warm eardrops to body temperature before administration to minimize this risk.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) "I should let the medication dissolve completely": This statement is correct and indicates that the client understands the proper administration of buccal medication. Buccal medications are designed to dissolve slowly between the gum and cheek, allowing for absorption directly into the bloodstream.
B) "I can only drink water, not juice, with this medication": This option is not accurate for buccal medications. While it is important to avoid swallowing the medication prematurely, there are generally no restrictions against consuming juice unless specified by the healthcare provider.
C) "I better chew my medication first for faster distribution": This statement indicates a misunderstanding. Buccal medications should not be chewed, as this can interfere with the intended slow release and absorption of the medication.
D) "I will place the medication in the same location": While placing the medication in the buccal pouch is important, it is not necessary to place it in the same exact spot every time. Rotating the site can help prevent irritation. This statement does not indicate a complete understanding of the proper technique.