The nurse administers an initial dose of a steroid to a patient with asthma. Thirty minutes after administration, the nurse finds the patient agitated and stating that "everyone is out to get me." What is the term for this unusual reaction?
a. Desired action
b. Adverse effect
c. Idiosyncratic reaction
d. Allergic reaction
ANS: C
Idiosyncratic reactions are unusual, abnormal reactions that occur when a drug is first administered. Patients typically exhibit an overresponsiveness to a medication related to diminished metabolism. These reactions are believed to be related to genetic enzyme deficiencies. Desired actions are expected responses to a medication. Adverse effects are reactions that occur in another system of the body; they are usually predictable. Allergic reactions appear after repeated medication dosages.
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A man stated, "I used to work out at the exercise room at work, but now that I'm retired I sit and watch TV. My wife keeps nagging me to do something. What do you think I should be doing at my age?"
Which of the following would be the most appropriate response by the nurse? a. "I think you should try to please your wife. What is it she wants you to do?" b. "It's okay to slow down at your age; why look for problems?" c. "You should try to exercise just as you did before. Is there a YMCA or club nearby?" d. "You've worked all your life; you have a right to rest now."
A patient admitted in a state of extreme anxiety has vital signs of: T 98.6° F, P 81, BP 130/86, R 32 . The nurse is aware if this hyperventilation continues, the result will be:
a. metabolic acidosis. b. metabolic alkalosis. c. respiratory acidosis. d. respiratory alkalosis.
An older surgical patient is having an epidural catheter inserted for pain control. What does the nurse realize is an advantage of using this method of pain medication for this patient?
1. improved bowel activity 2. faster wound healing 3. earlier ambulation 4. improved appetite
A client has been receiving a new medication to address specific symptoms. The nurse will perform a physical examination to determine:
1. The progress of the client's health problem. 2. The physiological impact of the prescribed medication. 3. Baseline data. 4. Data to support nursing diagnoses. 5. Areas for health promotion.