A client presents to the emergency department reporting chest pain that is radiating to the left arm, shortness of breath, and diaphoresis. Which medication should the nurse anticipate being prescribed by the healthcare provider?
Oxycodone.
Fentanyl.
Morphine.
Hydromorphone.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic used for moderate to severe pain management but is not typically the first-line medication in acute coronary syndrome scenarios.
B. Fentanyl is a potent opioid that may be used for severe pain; however, morphine is more commonly used in emergency situations for chest pain related to potential myocardial infarction.
C. Morphine is commonly used in emergency departments for the management of acute chest pain, particularly when associated with myocardial ischemia. It helps reduce pain and anxiety, lowers myocardial oxygen demand, and has vasodilatory effects that can alleviate the burden on the heart.
D. Hydromorphone is another opioid analgesic but is not usually the preferred choice for chest pain in the acute setting compared to morphine.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Bradycardia and constipation are symptoms associated with hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism, indicating that the dosage may be too low rather than too high.
B. Muscle cramping and dry, flushed skin are not typical indicators of levothyroxine overdose and may reflect other underlying issues.
C. Palpitations and shortness of breath are symptoms indicative of hyperthyroidism, suggesting that the levothyroxine dosage may be too high, leading to an increased metabolic rate and cardiovascular stress.
D. Lethargy and lack of appetite are more consistent with under-treatment or hypothyroidism rather than an overdose of levothyroxine, which typically stimulates metabolic activity.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Administering opioid and non-opioid medications together is an effective pain management strategy for severe pain. This approach can provide better pain relief by targeting different pain pathways and may reduce the total dosage of opioids needed, thus minimizing side effects.
B. Alternating IV and IM analgesic medications is not the best approach; instead, consistent pain management is necessary to keep pain levels under control.
C. Waiting until the pain score reaches 10 before administering the maximum dosage is inappropriate and could lead to inadequate pain control. Pain management should be proactive, not reactive.
D. While educating the client on narcotic dependency is important, it is not the priority intervention in this acute situation where pain control is essential. The immediate focus should be on effective pain relief.