A patient requires as-needed sedation. What would the nurse keep in mind when choosing a PRN sedative for an agitated patient?
a. Intramuscular injection can be traumatic, so oral meds should be used where possible.
b. Benzodiazepines are less sedating but have the advantage of no side effects.
c. Lithium carbonate works well but only for those already taking regular daily dosages.
d. Diazepam (Valium) is the preferred benzodiazepine because it is a short-acting sedative.
A
The intramuscular route can be traumatic for patients, particularly for trauma survivors, and can itself be perceived as an aggressive or punitive intervention. Benzodiazepines in sufficient dosage can be as sedating as antipsychotics and are not free of side effects; they are central nervous system depressants and can cause paradoxical excitement or aggression in some persons. Lithium carbonate reduces aggression in select situations involving chronic aggression but is not effective or appropriate for PRN use. Diazepam is a long-acting sedative and as a result would not be appropriate for PRN use.
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A 59-year-old man is being admitted to hospice care that will be given in his home. While doing the admission assessment, the hospice nurse asks about the man's spiritual beliefs
The man tells the nurse that he is of the Baha'i faith and that he is strong spiritually. What does the hospice nurse realize about her patients' beliefs? A) The spiritual beliefs of people and families are all basically the same and do not need addressing. B) The spiritual beliefs of people and families never cause tension and concern when a patient is terminal. C) The spiritual beliefs of people and families need to be acknowledged, valued, and respected. D) The spiritual beliefs of people and families often cause misdirection and discomfort to those who hold different beliefs.
What statement applies to the current focus of the dietary management of children with diabetes?
a. Measurement of all servings of food is vital for control. b. Daily calculate specific amounts of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. c. The number of calories for carbohydrates remains constant on a daily basis; protein and fat calories are liberal. d. The intake ensures day-to-day consistency in total calories, protein, carbohydrates, and moderate fat while allowing for a wide variety of foods.
The nurse is teaching a client with diabetes about exercise. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
a. "I won't exercise if I find ketones in my urine." b. "If my blood glucose is over 200, I should not exercise." c. "Exercise will help me keep my blood glucose down." d. "My risks for heart disease can be mod-ified with exercise."
A nurse is concerned about an upcoming debate on a proposed state health care policy change. What actions can the nurse take in order to have his or her voice heard on this issue? (Select all that apply.)
a. Contact legislators by phone to express opinions. b. Encourage nursing experts to testify at hearings. c. Gather information and speak at the hearings. d. Run for election to governmental office. e. Write letters to supportive state representatives.