A nurse in the PACU is caring for a client who has received general anesthesia and has manifestations of malignant hyperthermia. Which of the following medications should the nurse expect to administer?
Diazepam
Dantrolene
Cyclobenzaprine
Metaxalone
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine used for anxiety and sedation but is not effective for treating malignant hyperthermia.
B. Dantrolene is the specific antidote for malignant hyperthermia, and the nurse should expect to administer it to help reduce the severe muscle contractions and hypermetabolism associated with this condition.
C. Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant used for muscle spasms but is not indicated for malignant hyperthermia.
D. Metaxalone is also a muscle relaxant, but like cyclobenzaprine, it is not effective for managing malignant hyperthermia and would not be used in this situation.
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 C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Applying a warming blanket is not appropriate and may worsen the client’s reaction to the infusion. It does not help prevent infusion-related reactions.
B. Infusing amphotericin B deoxycholate over 1 hour is too fast; the medication should be infused over 2-6 hours to reduce the risk of adverse effects.
C. Administering diphenhydramine prior to administration is recommended to help prevent infusion-related reactions, such as fever and chills, which the client experienced during previous infusions.
D. Monitoring vital signs once per hour is inadequate; vital signs should be monitored more frequently during and immediately after the infusion to promptly identify and manage any adverse reactions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Increase fluids while taking the medication: Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant that can cause anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth and constipation. Increasing fluid intake helps to mitigate these effects and prevent dehydration and constipation.
B. Expect an elevation in blood pressure with initial doses of the medication: Amitriptyline can cause orthostatic hypotension rather than elevated blood pressure. Clients should be informed about the risk of dizziness or fainting.
C. Stop the medication immediately if urine becomes orange in color: Orange urine is not a common side effect of amitriptyline. Clients should not stop the medication without consulting their provider.
D. Take the medication in the morning: Amitriptyline has sedative effects and is typically taken at night to help manage sleep disturbances and reduce daytime drowsiness.