A nurse is administering diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to a client experiencing a minor allergic reaction. Which information would the nurse include in the client's teaching plan regarding diphenhydramine (Benadry)? (Select All that Apply.)
This medication (Benadryl) targets h2 receptors to alleviate symptoms.
Take this medication on an empty stomach before breakfast. Drowsiness is a common side effect of diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Avoid CNS depressants while taking diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
This medication is a 2nd generation antihistamine.
Paradoxical reactions can be seen with this medication.
Correct Answer : C,E
A. This medication (Benadryl) targets H2 receptors to alleviate symptoms: This statement is incorrect. Diphenhydramine is an H1 receptor antagonist, not an H2 antagonist. H1 receptors are primarily involved in allergic reactions, whereas H2 receptors are related to gastric acid secretion.
B. Take this medication on an empty stomach before breakfast. Drowsiness is a common side effect of diphenhydramine (Benadryl): While drowsiness is indeed a common side effect, taking diphenhydramine on an empty stomach is not necessarily required and may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. It can be taken with food if preferred.
C. Avoid CNS depressants while taking diphenhydramine (Benadryl): This is an important teaching point. Diphenhydramine can cause sedation, and the use of other CNS depressants (like alcohol or sedatives) can enhance this effect, increasing the risk of excessive drowsiness or other complications.
D. This medication is a 2nd generation antihistamine: This statement is incorrect. Diphenhydramine is actually a first-generation antihistamine. First-generation antihistamines tend to cause more sedation and other side effects compared to second-generation antihistamines, which are less sedating.
E. Paradoxical reactions can be seen with this medication: This is true. In some individuals, particularly children, diphenhydramine can cause paradoxical reactions, such as increased excitability or hyperactivity, rather than the expected sedation. This is an important consideration to discuss with clients.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Ipratropium bromide: While ipratropium is used to manage bronchospasm, it is typically not the first choice for acute asthma attacks. It has a slower onset of action compared to short-acting beta-agonists like albuterol and is generally used as an adjunct therapy rather than for immediate relief.
B) Albuterol: This medication is a short-acting beta-agonist that provides rapid relief of bronchospasm during an acute asthma attack. It works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, making it the preferred first-line treatment for quick relief in asthma exacerbations.
C) Salmeterol: This medication is a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) used for long-term control of asthma symptoms, not for immediate relief. It has a delayed onset of action and should not be used as a rescue medication during an acute attack, as it may take longer to provide effects.
D) Budesonide: This is an inhaled corticosteroid that helps in controlling chronic inflammation associated with asthma. While important for long-term management, it is not effective for the rapid relief of acute symptoms and should not be used during an asthma attack.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Palpitations: While palpitations can be concerning for many medications, they are not a commonly reported side effect of dextromethorphan. This medication primarily acts as a cough suppressant and does not typically have cardiovascular effects that would lead to palpitations. Therefore, clients should not primarily monitor for this side effect when taking dextromethorphan.
B) Hypertension: Dextromethorphan is not generally associated with causing hypertension. Its main action is to suppress the cough reflex, and it does not typically influence blood pressure levels. Patients taking this medication should focus on other side effects rather than worrying about hypertension.
C) Ataxia: Ataxia, or impaired coordination, is a notable adverse effect associated with dextromethorphan, especially at higher doses or when combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol. This side effect can lead to dizziness and increased risk of falls or accidents, making it important for clients to be aware of their coordination and alertness levels while on this medication. Advising patients to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if they experience ataxia is essential for their safety.
D) Diarrhea: Diarrhea is not a common adverse effect of dextromethorphan. The medication is primarily used for its antitussive properties, and gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea are generally not associated with its use. If patients experience gastrointestinal symptoms while taking this medication, they may need to consider other factors or medications that could be contributing to those symptoms.