A client diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is given a new prescription for tiotropium via an inhalation device. Which statement indicates the client understands the instructions for using this medication?
I should use this medication in its handihaler every day.
I will use my other inhaler in between uses.
When I cough up sputum, the secretions should be less thick.
If I have sudden shortness of breath, I will use this inhaler.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Tiotropium is a long-acting bronchodilator used daily to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It helps to relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe. This medication is not intended for immediate relief of acute symptoms but for long-term control of COPD1.
Choice B rationale
Using another inhaler in between uses of tiotropium is not necessary unless prescribed by a healthcare provider. Tiotropium is meant to be used daily, and other inhalers may be prescribed for different purposes, such as rescue inhalers for sudden symptoms.
Choice C rationale
While tiotropium can help improve breathing and reduce symptoms over time, it is not specifically indicated to reduce the thickness of sputum. Other medications or treatments may be needed to address sputum consistency.
Choice D rationale
Tiotropium is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used for sudden shortness of breath. Rescue inhalers, such as albuterol, are designed for immediate relief of acute symptoms.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Lactulose is a synthetic sugar used to treat hepatic encephalopathy by reducing the absorption of ammonia in the intestines. Ammonia is a neurotoxin that can impair mental status in patients with liver dysfunction. By decreasing ammonia levels, lactulose helps improve cognitive function and mental status in patients with hepatic encephalopathy.
Choice B rationale
While lactulose can cause diarrhea as a side effect, the therapeutic goal in hepatic encephalopathy is not to reduce the number of liquid stools but to lower ammonia levels in the blood. The reduction in ammonia levels leads to improved mental status, not necessarily a reduction in liquid stools.
Choice C rationale
The ability to ambulate independently is not a direct therapeutic response to lactulose. The primary goal of lactulose therapy in hepatic encephalopathy is to improve mental status by reducing ammonia levels, not to enhance physical mobility.
Choice D rationale
Lactulose does not have a direct effect on urine output. Its primary mechanism of action is to reduce ammonia absorption in the intestines, thereby improving mental status in patients with hepatic encephalopathy.
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor used to manage hypertension. While it is generally safe, in the context of pneumonia, it can potentially cause complications such as hypotension, especially if the patient becomes septic or dehydrated. Additionally, ACE inhibitors can cause a persistent cough, which might be confused with or exacerbate the symptoms of pneumonia.
Choice B rationale:
Admitting the patient to the medical floor is appropriate given the diagnosis of pneumonia and the patient’s symptoms. Hospitalization allows for close monitoring and administration of necessary treatments.
Choice C rationale:
Sending blood for a complete blood count and electrolytes is standard practice to assess the patient’s overall health and identify any potential complications such as electrolyte imbalances or infection severity.
Choice D rationale:
Supplemental oxygen at 10 L/min via nasal cannula is quite high and typically not the first choice for pneumonia patients. High-flow oxygen therapy or non-invasive ventilation might be more appropriate if the patient requires such high levels of oxygen. Generally, nasal cannulas are used for lower flow rates (up to 6 L/min), and higher flow rates can cause discomfort and nasal dryness.
Choice E rationale:
Ibuprofen is commonly used to manage fever and pain in pneumonia patients. It helps reduce fever and alleviate discomfort, which can improve the patient’s overall condition.
Choice F rationale:
Continuous pulse oximetry is appropriate for monitoring the patient’s oxygen saturation levels, especially given the initial low oxygen saturation on room air.
Choice G rationale:
Vital signs every 4 hours is a standard practice for monitoring patients with pneumonia to detect any changes in their condition promptly.
Choice H rationale:
A chest X-ray is essential for diagnosing and assessing the extent of pneumonia. It helps in identifying the presence of infiltrates, consolidation, or other complications.