A nurse is preparing to administer acetylcysteine (Mucomyst) to a client with excessive respiratory secretions. Which of the following statements are correct regarding acetylcysteine (Mucomyst) (Select All that Apply.)
alternative usage includes being the reversal agent for acetaminophen overdoses.
This medication should not be used for clients with productive coughs.
This medication has a foul smell resembling "rotten eggs"
This medication can be utilized in client's with cystic fibrosis. This medication falls under the classification of "mucoyltic".
This medication has anticholinergic properties and side effects
Correct Answer : A,C,D
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.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Tachycardia: Theophylline can stimulate the heart, leading to an increase in heart rate. Tachycardia is a common adverse effect associated with theophylline use, and it is essential for the client to be aware of this potential side effect, especially if they have underlying heart conditions.
B. Constipation: While gastrointestinal side effects can occur with theophylline, constipation is not a primary or common adverse effect. Theophylline may actually lead to gastrointestinal upset or increased gastric acid production rather than causing constipation.
C. Drowsiness: Theophylline typically does not cause drowsiness. In fact, it is more likely to
cause restlessness or insomnia, as it is a stimulant. Thus, advising the client about drowsiness is not relevant in this case.
D. Oliguria: Oliguria (reduced urine output) is not a common adverse effect of theophylline. Theophylline can affect kidney function indirectly but does not typically present as oliguria. Monitoring for any renal changes is essential, but oliguria is not a primary concern.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Stimulate alpha-adrenergic receptors, thus producing vascular constriction of capillaries in nasal mucosa: This describes the action of decongestants, not guaifenesin. Guaifenesin does not work by constricting blood vessels; rather, its primary function is to help manage mucus production.
B. Compete with histamine for receptor sites, thus preventing a histamine response and overall congestion: This mechanism is associated with antihistamines, which are used to relieve symptoms of allergic reactions, not with guaifenesin. Guaifenesin does not block histamine but focuses on mucus management.
C. Treat allergic rhinitis and prevent motion sickness: While these are common uses for antihistamines, they do not apply to guaifenesin. Guaifenesin is primarily an expectorant and is not indicated for treating allergic rhinitis or motion sickness.
D. Loosen bronchial secretion to assist in elimination: Guaifenesin acts as an expectorant, promoting the clearance of mucus from the airways by loosening bronchial secretions. This facilitates easier expectoration of mucus, helping to relieve chest congestion associated with upper respiratory infections.