A patient receiving heparin therapy develops bruising and bleeding gums. What should the nurse suspect and what is the appropriate action?
Suspect an allergic reaction and administer antihistamines.
Suspect a bleeding complication and notify the healthcare provider.
Suspect a hypersensitivity reaction and discontinue the heparin immediately.
Suspect an infection and initiate antibiotic therapy.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Bruising and bleeding gums are not indicative of an allergic reaction, which would typically present with different symptoms such as rash, itching, or swelling. Administering antihistamines would not address the underlying issue.
B. The development of bruising and bleeding gums in a patient on heparin therapy suggests a bleeding complication, which is a known risk of anticoagulation therapy. The nurse should notify the healthcare provider to assess the situation and possibly adjust treatment or perform further evaluations.
C. While hypersensitivity reactions can occur with medications, the symptoms presented here are more aligned with bleeding complications than with hypersensitivity. Discontinuing heparin without consulting the provider could put the patient at risk for thromboembolic events.
D. The symptoms do not indicate an infection; therefore, initiating antibiotic therapy would not be appropriate in this context.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While MAOIs may have some regulatory considerations, they are not classified under a scheduled drug classification like controlled substances.
B. MAOIs are effective in treating depression and anxiety disorders, which is not the reason for their limited use.
C. Although MAOIs can have some side effects, they are more notably associated with dietary and drug interactions rather than causing GI bleeding or esophageal varices.
D. MAOIs can cause dangerous interactions with foods that contain tyramine (like aged cheeses and fermented products) and certain medications, leading to hypertensive crises, making their use cautious and limiting in clinical practice.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The statement regarding antiviral drugs not preventing the spread of the disease is accurate, as these medications do not eliminate the virus or prevent transmission.
B. Saying that antivirals are the cure for viral infections is incorrect; while they can reduce symptoms and viral load, they do not cure the infection.
C. The instruction about topical antivirals not being applied more frequently than prescribed is correct and reflects safe medication use.
D. The recommendation to use a finger cot or gloves when applying topical antivirals is correct to prevent contamination and ensure proper application.