A patient with a pneumonia-related cough has been advised to add guaifenesin to the regimen of antibiotics. The patient asks about the purpose of the drug. The nurse's best response is, "The guaifenesin will
a. potentiate the antibiotics you are taking to fight the infection."
b. relieve any pain associated with your cough."
c. help dry your secretions so that you produce less mucus with your cough."
d. help stimulate the flow of secretions and help you bring them up."
ANS: D
Expectorants, such as guaifenesin, render cough more productive by stimulating the flow of respiratory tract secretions.
Guaifenesin does not increase the effects of antibiotics, relieve pain from cough, or dry up secretions.
You might also like to view...
The clinic nurse is caring for a 42-year-old male oncology patient. He complains of extreme fatigue and weakness after his first week of radiation therapy. What response by the nurse would best reassure this patient?
A) "These symptoms usually result from radiation therapy; however, we will continue to monitor your laboratory and X-ray studies." B) "These symptoms are part of your disease and can't be helped." C) "Don't be concerned about these symptoms. Everybody feels this way after having radiation therapy." D) "This is a good sign. It means that only the cancer cells are dying."
Which child would require a Mantoux test?
a. The child who has episodes of nighttime wheezing and coughing b. The child who has a history of allergic rhinitis c. The child whose babysitter is diagnosed with tuberculosis d. The premature infant who is being treated for apnea of infancy
The nurse instructs a patient with herniated thoracic and lumbar disks about spinal fusion surgery. Which patient statements indicate that teaching has been effective? Select all that apply.
A. "Bone chips will be wedged between the vertebrae to stabilize them." B. "Bone chips might be taken from my iliac crest bone." C. "Holes will be drilled into my skull so that a brace can be placed." D. "I will need to stay on bed rest because traction will be applied to my spine." E. "A hollow titanium tube might be placed in my spine to replace a removed disk."
Explain the difference between psychological and physical drug dependence.
What will be an ideal response?