What can result if a patient overuses topical decongestants?
a. Hypertensive crisis
b. Allergic reaction
c. Secondary congestion
d. Permanent olfactory damage
ANS: C
Overuse of topical decongestants may lead to a rebound or increase in nasal secretions, causing a secondary congestion (known as rhinitis medicamentosa). This secondary congestion is thought to be caused by excessive vasoconstriction of blood vessels and direct irritation of the mucous membranes by the medication. As vasoconstriction wears off, the irritation triggers excessive blood flow to the passages, which in turn causes swelling and engorgement to reappear in greater intensity. Although decongestants can cause elevated blood pressure, they are not likely to cause hypertensive crisis. Allergic reaction is unlikely with decongestants. Damage to nasal tissues resulting from the use of decongestants is unlikely to be permanent.
You might also like to view...
What is an appropriate nursing diagnosis for a patient who has recently been diagnosed with acromegaly?
a. Ineffective coping b. Activity intolerance c. Risk for trauma d. Chronic low self-esteem
A client with moderate to severe anxiety associated with generalized anxiety disorder can be
assessed as successfully lowering her anxiety level to mild when she a. asks "What's the matter with me?" b. stays in her room and paces. c. states she is uninterested in eating. d. can concentrate on what the nurse is saying.
What is a cardiovascular sign of impending death?
a. Cheyne-Stokes respiration b. Bounding pulse c. Cyanosis of the extremities d. Increased blood pressure
A client has been admitted to your unit with a diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). What level of prevention is instituted?
1. primary 2. secondary 3. tertiary 4. none