A nurse is teaching a class about pharmacodynamics.
The nurse should include that which of the following medication levels occurs when a medication is at the lowest serum concentration?
Toxic.
Peak.
Trough.
Half-life.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Toxic levels refer to concentrations of a medication that are high enough to cause harmful effects or poisoning. This is not related to the lowest serum concentration.
Choice B rationale
Peak levels are the highest concentration of a medication in the bloodstream after administration. This occurs after the drug is absorbed and distributed.
Choice C rationale
Trough levels occur when the medication is at its lowest concentration in the bloodstream, typically just before the next dose is due. Monitoring trough levels helps ensure therapeutic effectiveness while avoiding toxicity.
Choice D rationale
Half-life refers to the time it takes for the concentration of a drug in the bloodstream to decrease by half. It is not directly related to the lowest serum concentration at a specific point in time.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice C rationale
The large intestine absorbs water and electrolytes from the remaining indigestible food matter, forming and eliminating solid waste (stool). This absorption process is vital for
maintaining the body's fluid and electrolyte balance.
Choice A rationale
The large intestine does not produce vitamin D; this occurs in the skin when exposed to sunlight. The large intestine’s primary functions are absorption and waste formation.
Choice B rationale
Preventing the reflux of food into the esophagus is the function of the lower esophageal sphincter, not the large intestine. The large intestine deals with waste processing rather than regulating esophageal function.
Choice D rationale
The secretion of digestive enzymes is a function of the pancreas, stomach, and small intestine. The large intestine does not secrete enzymes but focuses on absorbing water and electrolytes.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Collecting two stool specimens from the same area of the stool is incorrect because specimens should be taken from different areas to ensure a representative sample of the stool for testing.
Choice B rationale
Using toilet paper to transfer the stool specimen is not recommended as it can contaminate the sample and interfere with test results.
Choice C rationale
Applying four drops of developing solution to each stool specimen is incorrect. The usual procedure involves applying a specific number of drops as indicated by the test instructions, which may vary.
Choice D rationale
Waiting 30 seconds after applying the developing solution is correct. This waiting period allows the test to react and provide accurate results for the presence of occult blood.