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.
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 ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A) Alternative usage includes being the reversal agent for acetaminophen overdoses: Acetylcysteine is indeed used as an antidote for acetaminophen toxicity. It helps replenish glutathione levels in the liver, thus protecting it from damage caused by the overdose. This is a well-established use of the medication.
B) This medication should not be used for clients with productive coughs: This statement is not correct. Acetylcysteine is used to help thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to expel from the lungs. It can be beneficial for clients with productive coughs, as it aids in reducing excessive respiratory secretions.
C) This medication has a foul smell resembling "rotten eggs": Acetylcysteine has a characteristic odor that is often described as similar to rotten eggs due to the presence of sulfur in its chemical structure. This can be an important consideration for patients when administering the medication.
D) This medication can be utilized in clients with cystic fibrosis. This medication falls under the classification of "mucolytic": Acetylcysteine is classified as a mucolytic agent, making it useful for patients with conditions like cystic fibrosis, where thick mucus production is a significant issue. It helps to decrease the viscosity of secretions, facilitating easier clearance.
E) This medication has anticholinergic properties and side effects: This statement is incorrect. Acetylcysteine does not possess anticholinergic properties. Anticholinergic medications typically reduce secretions and are used for different indications, whereas acetylcysteine serves to increase mucus clearance, not decrease it.
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.