A patient has received an initial dose of glatiramer acetate [Copaxone] for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The nurse notes that the patient appears flushed and anxious and has urticaria
The patient reports palpitations, chest pain, and a feeling of laryngeal constriction. What will the nurse do? a. Obtain an order for epinephrine to treat a hypersensitivity reaction.
b. Prepare to provide cardiorespiratory sup-port.
c. Report a possible cardiotoxic episode to the provider.
d. Stay with the patient until this self-limiting episode passes.
D
About 10% of patients taking glatiramer acetate experience a self-limited postinjection reaction characterized by flushing, palpitations, severe chest pain, anxiety, laryngeal constriction, and ur-ticaria; the episode usually lasts 15 to 20 minutes. No treatment is required, but the nurse should stay with the patient to help alleviate anxiety associated with this reaction. Epinephrine is not indicated. Cardiorespiratory support is not necessary. This does not represent a cardiotoxic reac-tion.
You might also like to view...
The nurse is preparing a critically ill patient for transfer to another facility. Based on the criteria established by the Emergency Medical Transfer Active Labor Act (EMTALA), what patient situation would prevent transfer?
A) The sole reason for transfer is the patient's uninsured status. B) The patient has been stabilized before the transfer. C) The receiving agency has the expertise to care for the patient. D) Transfer records are complete and sent with the patient.
A newly hired nurse has incurred numerous amounts of absenteeism within the past two schedules. The manager has scheduled a meeting with the nurse. What other actions should the manager take in addressing the issue?
1. Have HR (human resources) present when confronting the nurse. 2. Discuss the absenteeism with the nurse and forget about the situation. 3. Discuss the issue of absenteeism and other nurses who have similar absences. 4. Document the absences, review the attendance policy, and provide a copy for the nurse.
A patient has come to the clinic for a follow-up assessment. Before taking the blood pressure, the nurse should determine if the patient has:
A) Tried to rest quietly for 5 minutes before the reading is taken B) Refrained from smoking for at least 8 hours C) Been NPO for at least 2 hours D) Avoided drinking coffee for 12 hours before the visit
A patient who has received some traumatic
news is panicking and asks for some medication to help settle down. The nurse anticipates giving which drug that is most appropriate for this situation? a. Diazepam (Valium) b. Zolpidem (Ambien) c. Phenobarbital d. Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)