Respiratory/Question Review

A client with nasal congestion tells the nurse that his symptoms have worsened since he has been using oxymetazoline (Afrin). Which question should the nurse ask the client

• "Have you checked the expiration date on the prescription?"

• "Have you experienced a recent fever?"

• "Are you using any other inhaled prescriptions?"

• "How long have you been using the prescription?"

Answer explanation

It is important to assess the length of time the client has been using oxymetazoline. Oxymetazoline can cause rebound congestion if used for a long period of time

Which assessment finding should the nurse be most concerned about for a client receiving pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)?

• Temperature of 100°F

• Respiratory rate of 22

• Heart rate 82 and irregular

• Complaints of a dry mouth

Answer explanation

Pseudoephedrine may cause dysrhythmias.

The nurse has completed the education for a client prescribed diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for allergies. Which statement made by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• "Drowsiness is common but should lessen over time."

• "If this medication makes my nose run, I can use a nasal spray."

• "I need to watch my intake of sodium with this medication."

• "I cannot take this medication with pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)."

Answer explanation

Drowsiness is a common adverse effect of antihistamines and will diminish with long-term use.

The nurse has completed the education for a client prescribed an antihistamine. Which statement made by the client indicates an understanding of the information?

• "I can still have my after-dinner drink."

• "I may experience diarrhea while taking this prescription."

• "This prescription is safe because it is sold over-the-counter (OTC)."

• "This medication could make me very sleepy."

Answer explanation

Sedation is a common side effect of antihistamines.

The nurse is reviewing the major functions of the upper respiratory tract with a client. Which information should the nurse include?

Select all that apply.

• Inward airflow from the trachea branches off to the two bronchi.

• The nose warms the air before it reaches the lungs.

• The nasal mucosa is the first line of immunological defense.

• Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system constricts arterioles in the nose.

• Activation of the sympathetic nervous system constricts arterioles in the nose.

Answer explanation

2. 2.The nose warms the air before it reaches the lungs.

3.The nasal mucosa is the first line of immunological defense

5.Activation of the sympathetic nervous system constricts arterioles in the nose.

The educator has reviewed the role of histamine receptors associated with allergic symptoms with a nurse. Which statement made by the nurse indicates further instruction is needed?

• "H1 receptors are found in the stomach."

• "H1 receptors are responsible for allergic symptoms."

• "H2 receptors increase mucus secretion in the stomach."

• "H2 receptors are responsible for peptic ulcers."

Answer explanation

H2 receptors are found in the stomach.

Which symptom should the nurse instruct the client prescribed diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to report to the healthcare provider?

• Sedation

• Diarrhea

• Weight gain

• Urinary hesitancy

Answer explanation

Urinary hesitancy is an anticholinergic effect of diphenhydramine and should be reported to the healthcare provider.

A client asks the nurse when she should use an antitussive. Which response should the nurse provide the client?

• "When you are coughing up secretions."

• "When your temperature is 101.2°F."

• "When you have been diagnosed with a respiratory infection."

• "When you have a dry cough and cannot rest."

Answer explanation

Antitussives can be taken when the client is experiencing a dry, hacking, and nonproductive cough. This type of cough is irritating to the membranes of the throat and deprives the client of much needed rest.

Which condition should the nurse be concerned about for a client prescribed fluticasone (Flonase)?

• Diabetes mellitus

• Pregnancy

• Glaucoma

• Hypertension

Answer explanation

Fluticasone is a pregnancy category C drug, which means the effects on pregnancy are not known. A pregnant client should not receive this prescription.

Which information should the nurse include in the teaching for a client prescribed dextromethorphan (Delsym)?

• Avoid grapefruit juice.

• Dextromethorphan can be used with a chronic cough.

• The prescription may have a slow onset of action.

• Decrease your alcohol intake while taking this prescription.

Answer explanation

Grapefruit juice can raise serum levels of dextromethorphan and cause toxicity.