The nurse is caring for a client who experienced a severe headache. When the prescribed dose of analgesics did not cause relief, the client took double the dosage 1 hour later. The nurse should assess the client for what adverse effect?
An allergic reaction
Anaphylactic reaction
Poisoning
Sedative effects
The Correct Answer is C
A. An allergic reaction is a possible response to medication, but it is not directly related to doubling the dosage.
B. Anaphylactic reaction is a severe and rapid allergic response; while possible, it is not the most likely consequence of an overdose in this context.
C. Poisoning is a likely concern when a client takes double the prescribed dosage of analgesics, especially if the medication has a narrow therapeutic index or is known to cause toxicity at high doses.
D. Sedative effects could occur depending on the analgesic used, but poisoning is a more pressing concern following an overdose.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Confirming that the medication prescribed is the drug of choice for the specific microorganism is crucial in ensuring effective treatment, as the right drug will target the identified infection.
B. Teaching the client that significant adverse effects are expected and must be endured is not a supportive approach; the focus should be on managing and minimizing adverse effects rather than accepting them.
C. Administering antihistamines may not be relevant for all patients undergoing anti-infective treatment and is not a primary strategy for ensuring treatment success.
D. Monitoring for signs of arrhythmias or cardiac ischemia is not directly related to ensuring the success of anti-infective treatment; it may be necessary for certain medications but does not address the effectiveness of anti-infectives specifically.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A reduced plasma albumin level can lead to increased free drug levels in the bloodstream, raising the risk of drug toxicity, particularly for highly protein-bound medications.
B. Decreased therapeutic effects are less likely because the decrease in albumin can lead to higher free drug concentrations, which may actually increase effects rather than decrease them.
C. Altered drug absorption is generally not directly influenced by plasma albumin levels; it relates more to gastrointestinal factors.
D. Increased drug metabolism is not a direct consequence of lower albumin levels; instead, the concern is primarily about increased free drug concentrations and potential toxicity.