The patient has been keeping a "headache diary" of her migraines. Upon review of this diary, the nurse notes that the headaches are described as mild and have happened four times in the last 3 months
The patient reports that she "generally just lies down until they pass" but that her new job will not allow that time. She is requesting information about pain medication. What medications would the nurse expect to be prescribed?
1. Ibuprofen
2. Acetaminophen and caffeine
3. Sumatriptan (Imitrex)
4. Ergotamine (Ergostat)
5. Amitriptyline (Elavil)
Correct Answer: 1,2
Rationale 1: NSAIDs are often effective for the mild migraines this patient experiences.
Rationale 2: Acetaminophen and caffeine together are used for treatment of mild migraines.
Rationale 3: Sumatriptan is a serotonin receptor agonist and is usually used only for moderate to severe migraines.
Rationale 4: Ergotamine is an ergot alkaloid that is a serotonin receptor agonist. This drug is used only with moderate to severe migraines.
Rationale 5: Amitriptyline is used to prevent migraines, not to reduce pain once they occur.
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Mrs. Smith's family sues the facility for allowing her to be up unassisted and in the process learns that the nurse was unauthorized to start an IV. In the court, the judge will ask others
a. Would another LPN do the same thing under these circumstances? b. Why was there no one directly supervising Mrs. Smith at all times? c. Where was the physician while all this was going on? d. Did Mrs. Smith give express permission for the IV?
Pat Wagner, 88 years old, has become increasingly weak and has been admitted to the long-term care facility. On admission, he is found to have a fecal impaction. Which of the following would not be part of his restorative care program?
a. Ambulate him to the bathroom after meals b. Increase fluid intake to 1500 mL/day c. Administer Fleet's enema every other day to ensure bowel evacuation d. Increase dietary fiber
A patient tells a nurse that he always uses boric acid solution to wash out his eyes. What would the nurse teach the patient?
A) "Boric acid should not be used; it is toxic when absorbed." B) "Good work! Continue with your cleansing routine." C) "Why in the world would you do such a thing?" D) "Maybe you should try something a little stronger."
The nurse is teaching a class on erectile dysfunction. Based on the anatomy of the male external genitalia, what is the most logical cause of the inability to achieve erection?
1. Weakness or atrophy of the penile muscles 2. Decreased functioning of the seminiferous tubules 3. An undescended testicle 4. Poor circulation to the penis