1430 Flashcards

1
Q

What is the primary purpose of medications?

A

To prevent, diagnose, treat, or manage diseases and conditions

Medications can also help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

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2
Q

Define pharmacokinetics.

A

The study of how drugs move through the body

This includes absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.

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3
Q

What are the four main phases of pharmacokinetics?

A
  • Absorption
  • Distribution
  • Metabolism
  • Excretion

These phases describe how a drug is processed in the body.

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4
Q

Fill in the blank: The process by which a drug is taken into the bloodstream is called _______.

A

[Absorption]

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5
Q

What factors can affect drug absorption?

A
  • Route of administration
  • Blood flow to the site of administration
  • Surface area available for absorption
  • Drug formulation

Each of these factors can influence how quickly and effectively a drug is absorbed.

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6
Q

True or False: Drug distribution refers to how a drug is eliminated from the body.

A

False

Drug distribution refers to the dispersion of the drug throughout the fluids and tissues of the body.

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7
Q

What is metabolism in the context of pharmacology?

A

The chemical alteration of a drug in the body

Metabolism often converts active drugs into inactive metabolites.

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8
Q

What organs are primarily involved in drug metabolism?

A
  • Liver
  • Kidneys
  • Lungs
  • Intestines

The liver is the most significant organ for drug metabolism.

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9
Q

Fill in the blank: The process of removing a drug from the body is known as _______.

A

[Excretion]

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10
Q

List the common routes of drug administration.

A
  • Oral
  • Intravenous
  • Intramuscular
  • Subcutaneous
  • Topical

Each route has specific advantages and disadvantages.

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11
Q

What is the difference between a generic drug and a brand-name drug?

A

A generic drug is a chemical equivalent to a brand-name drug but marketed under its chemical name

Generic drugs are typically less expensive than brand-name drugs.

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12
Q

What is the role of the FDA in medication regulation?

A

To ensure the safety, efficacy, and security of drugs

The FDA also oversees the approval process for new medications.

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13
Q

True or False: All medications have side effects.

A

True

Side effects can vary in severity and may not occur in every individual.

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14
Q

What is the term for the dose of a drug that produces the desired effect?

A

[Therapeutic dose]

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15
Q

What does the term ‘half-life’ refer to in pharmacology?

A

The time it takes for the concentration of a drug in the bloodstream to reduce by half

Half-life affects dosing schedules and drug accumulation.

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16
Q

List three factors that influence drug action.

A
  • Age
  • Weight
  • Genetic factors

These factors can affect how a drug is metabolized and its efficacy.

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17
Q

Fill in the blank: The study of how drugs affect biological systems is known as _______.

A

[Pharmacodynamics]

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18
Q

What are the antecedents of comfort?

A
  1. Effective circulatory system
  2. Ability to discern comfort from discomfort
  3. Absence of noxious stimuli
  4. Intact neurological/sensory system

These factors contribute to maintaining optimal comfort.

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19
Q

What are the attributes of comfort?

A
  1. Reports feeling comfortable
  2. Indicates a pain scale rating of zero
  3. Displays a relaxed facial expression and body posture
  4. Vital signs within normal limits for the patient’s baseline
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20
Q

Define comfort.

A

A state of physical ease that includes a holistic human experience across four contexts: physical, psycho-spiritual, sociocultural, and environmental.

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21
Q

List the four contexts of comfort.

A
  1. Physical
  2. Psycho-spiritual
  3. Sociocultural
  4. Environmental
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22
Q

What are the risk factors for impaired comfort across the lifespan?

A
  1. Age
  2. Medical conditions
  3. Social support
  4. Lack of knowledge/info
  5. Cultural background, including addiction
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23
Q

What are physical indicators of impaired comfort?

A
  1. Pain scale above zero
  2. Vital sign changes (inc. HR, BP, and RR)
  3. Nonverbal cues: grimacing, moaning, restlessness, guarding, and crying
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24
Q

What are behavioral and emotional signs of impaired comfort?

A
  1. Anxiety
  2. Fear
  3. Irritability
  4. Withdrawal
  5. Hopelessness
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25
Classify pain by duration.
1. Acute pain: short term, less than 3 months 2. Chronic pain: long term, more than 3 months
26
Classify pain by etiology.
1. Nociceptive pain * Somatic pain * Visceral pain 2. Neuropathic pain
27
What are physiological factors affecting pain experience?
1. Age 2. Nervous system function 3. Underlying health conditions
28
What are psychological factors affecting pain experience?
1. Emotions 2. Pain expectations
29
What are social and cultural factors affecting pain experience?
1. Support system 2. Cultural beliefs 3. Past pain experiences
30
Compare physiological indicators of acute pain and chronic pain.
Differences: - Acute pain shows obvious physiological changes (inc. HR & sweating) - Chronic pain may not show these signs. Similarities: - Both require pain management strategies - Both can impact daily life and well-being if untreated.
31
Identify examples of acute nociceptive pain.
1. Post-operative pain 2. Injury-related pain 3. Procedural pain 4. Visceral pain
32
Identify examples of chronic nociceptive pain.
1. Osteoarthritis pain 2. Degenerative disc disease 3. Chronic post-surgical pain 4. Chronic inflammatory conditions
33
Compare visceral pain and somatic pain.
Differences: - Visceral pain is poorly localized - Somatic pain is well-localized Similarities: - Both are types of nociceptive pain - Both can be acute or chronic.
34
Identify examples of neuropathic pain.
1. Sciatica 2. Phantom limb pain 3. Diabetic neuropathy 4. Degenerative disk disease
35
What are nonpharmacological nursing interventions to promote comfort?
1. Positioning 2. Sleep hygiene 3. Heat or cold therapy 4. Massage & therapeutic touch 5. Distraction techniques 6. Relaxation techniques
36
What are the steps of the nursing process for a patient with osteoarthritis?
1. Assessment 2. Diagnosis 3. Planning 4. Implementation
37
What are common nursing diagnoses for OA patients?
1. Chronic pain related to joint degeneration 2. Impaired physical mobility due to joint stiffness and pain 3. Self-care deficit related to decreased range of motion
38
Explain the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis.
Chronic, degenerative joint disease caused by gradual breakdown of cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, inflammation, and decreased synovial fluid.
39
What are the signs and symptoms of chronic pain in osteoarthritis?
1. Pain & stiffness 2. Joint changes & limited mobility 3. Pain pattern 4. Chronic discomfort & emotional effects
40
What laboratory tests are used in osteoarthritis diagnosis?
1. X-rays 2. CT scan & MRI 3. ESR & CRP (to rule out other conditions) 4. Joint fluid analysis
41
What is the medical management for osteoarthritis?
1. Pain relievers 2. NSAIDs 3. Topical treatments 4. Nonpharmacological interventions 5. Surgical management for severe cases
42
What is chronic pain related to?
Joint degeneration ## Footnote Chronic pain often arises from conditions such as osteoarthritis, leading to persistent discomfort and mobility issues.
43
What is a common nursing diagnosis for patients with impaired physical mobility?
Impaired physical mobility due to joint stiffness and pain ## Footnote This diagnosis reflects the limitations in movement that patients may experience.
44
What are the goals for managing chronic pain in patients?
* Reduce pain to a manageable level (e.g., pain scale of ≤ 3/10) * Improve mobility and function (e.g., walk 10 minutes daily with minimal discomfort) * Promote independence in performing ADLs * Prevent further joint damage through lifestyle modifications ## Footnote ADLs refer to Activities of Daily Living, which are essential for independent living.
45
What pharmacological interventions are commonly used for pain management?
* NSAIDs * Acetaminophen * Cymbalta * Steroid injections ## Footnote These medications help manage pain and inflammation associated with joint issues.
46
What nonpharmacological interventions can be implemented for joint pain?
* Heat & cold therapy * Low-impact exercise (e.g., swimming, walking) * Weight management & nutrition education * Joint protection techniques ## Footnote Nonpharmacological strategies are important for holistic pain management.
47
How can nurses evaluate the effectiveness of pain management interventions?
* Assess pain levels after interventions * Check for improved range of motion * Evaluate the ability to perform daily activities * Adjust medications or therapy plans if goals are not met ## Footnote Regular evaluation is critical to ensure that treatment remains effective.
48
What are the physical complications of osteoarthritis?
* Joint damage & deformity * Limited mobility * Muscle weakness ## Footnote These complications can significantly impact a patient's quality of life.
49
What are the emotional complications associated with chronic pain?
* Chronic pain & fatigue * Depression & anxiety ## Footnote Emotional distress can exacerbate the perception of pain and reduce overall well-being.
50
What is the primary risk factor for degenerative disk disease?
Aging ## Footnote Aging leads to natural wear and tear on spinal discs, increasing susceptibility to degeneration.
51
What are the signs and symptoms of degenerative disk disease?
* Chronic back or neck pain * Radiating pain (e.g., sciatica) * Neurological symptoms (burning, tingling) * Stiffness and reduced flexibility ## Footnote Symptoms can vary based on the location and severity of the degeneration.
52
What imaging tests are used to diagnose degenerative disk disease?
* MRI * X-rays * CT Scan ## Footnote These tests help visualize disc degeneration and assess nerve compression.
53
What are some non-surgical management options for degenerative disk disease?
* NSAIDs * Muscle relaxants * Physical therapy * Heat & cold therapy * Steroid injections ## Footnote Non-surgical approaches focus on pain relief and functional improvement.
54
What surgical options are available for severe cases of degenerative disk disease?
* Discectomy * Spinal fusion * Artificial disc replacement ## Footnote Surgical interventions may be necessary for patients with significant nerve compression or pain.
55
What are common nursing diagnoses for patients with degenerative disk disease?
* Chronic pain related to nerve compression * Impaired physical mobility due to stiffness and pain * Risk for injury due to weakness and instability ## Footnote These diagnoses guide nursing care and intervention strategies.
56
What is a key component of the evaluation phase in nursing care for degenerative disk disease?
Reassess pain levels after interventions ## Footnote Continuous evaluation ensures that the patient's pain management plan is effective.
57
What is the purpose of the WHO Pain Ladder?
To provide a stepwise approach to pain management ## Footnote The ladder guides the use of medications from mild to strong based on pain severity.
58
True or False: Chronic pain can lead to increased stress levels.
True ## Footnote Chronic pain is associated with heightened stress, affecting overall health.
59
Fill in the blank: Chronic pain can cause _______ and _______ in patients.
[anxiety], [depression] ## Footnote These emotional responses can further complicate pain management.
60
What is the risk associated with a surgical wound?
Risk for infection due to surgical wound ## Footnote Surgical wounds can become infected if proper care is not taken.
61
What is a potential risk related to pain control post-surgery?
Risk for delayed recovery related to ineffective pain control ## Footnote Inadequate pain management can hinder the healing process.
62
What is the goal for pain reduction post-surgery?
Reduce pain to a manageable level (e.g., pain ≤ 3/10) ## Footnote Managing pain effectively is crucial for recovery.
63
What should be improved within 24 hours post-operation?
Improve mobility (e.g., sit up, stand, or walk a few steps) ## Footnote Early mobility helps prevent complications.
64
Name one complication that should be prevented post-surgery.
Infection ## Footnote Infection is a common complication after surgical procedures.
65
What type of analgesia may be used if prescribed?
Patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) ## Footnote PCA allows patients to manage their own pain relief.
66
What is a nonpharmacological pain relief technique?
Distraction techniques (e.g., music, relaxation exercises) ## Footnote Nonpharmacological methods can complement medication.
67
What should be monitored after administering opioids?
Monitor for side effects (respiratory depression, sedation, nausea) ## Footnote Opioids can cause significant side effects that require monitoring.
68
What is one way to assess if pain management is effective?
Has pain improved? (Check pain level after interventions) ## Footnote Regular assessment is crucial to adjust pain management.
69
What is the purpose of using a PCA pump?
Allows patients to self-administer pain medication through an IV ## Footnote PCA pumps provide timely pain relief controlled by the patient.
70
What should patients be educated about regarding PCA use?
Only the patient should press the PCA button ## Footnote This prevents overdose risks associated with PCA.
71
What is a common nursing diagnosis for procedural pain?
Acute pain related to invasive procedures ## Footnote Identifying nursing diagnoses is essential for effective care planning.
72
What should be done before a procedure for pain management?
Administer PRN pain medication before the procedure ## Footnote Preemptive analgesia can help minimize pain perception.
73
What are common signs of immobility in the musculoskeletal system?
Weakness and reduced range of motion (ROM) ## Footnote Immobility directly affects muscle strength and flexibility.
74
What is a negative consequence of impaired mobility?
Pressure ulcers ## Footnote Prolonged immobility can lead to skin breakdown.
75
Define osteoporosis.
Reduced density of bone ## Footnote Osteoporosis increases the risk of fractures.
76
What is a common clinical manifestation of osteoporosis?
Loss of height over time ## Footnote Osteoporosis can lead to vertebral fractures causing height loss.
77
What should patients with osteoporosis be educated about?
Complete regular follow-ups every 6 months ## Footnote Regular check-ups are essential for managing osteoporosis.
78
What are modifiable risk factors for osteoporosis?
Nutrition, weight, excess alcohol intake, caffeine intake, smoking, long-term steroid use ## Footnote Lifestyle changes can significantly impact osteoporosis risk.
79
What is the function of osteoblasts?
Bone formation ## Footnote Osteoblasts are responsible for synthesizing new bone material.
80
What is the primary goal of physical therapy for osteoarthritis?
Improve joint function and reduce pain ## Footnote Therapy aims to enhance mobility and quality of life.
81
What are the clinical manifestations of osteoarthritis?
Pain, tenderness, swelling, redness, stiffness ## Footnote These symptoms can significantly affect daily activities.
82
What is a common type of hip fracture?
Intrascapular: within capsule of hip joint ## Footnote Intrascapular fractures may require surgical intervention.
83
What should a nurse monitor for in patients with hip fractures?
Change in pulses, sensation, and motor neurons ## Footnote Neurovascular assessments are critical for detecting complications.
84
What is a collaborative intervention to prevent DVT in immobile patients?
Administer anticoagulant, apply compression devices ## Footnote These measures help reduce the risk of thromboembolic events.
85
What is a psychosocial consequence of impaired mobility?
Impact on mental, emotional, and social well-being ## Footnote Impaired mobility can lead to feelings of isolation and depression.
86
What are the complications associated with hip fracture?
DVT & PE, pressure ulcers, pneumonia & atelectasis, UTI & urinary retention, constipation ## Footnote DVT & PE refers to deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, respectively.
87
What are collaborative nursing interventions to prevent DVT & PE after a hip fracture?
Administer anticoagulant, apply compression devices, coordinate with physical therapy for early ambulation
88
What are independent nursing interventions to prevent DVT & PE?
Encourage exercise and repositioning, monitor for signs for DVT, promote hydration
89
What are collaborative nursing interventions to prevent pressure ulcers?
Collaborate with wound care specialists, use pressure-relieving mattresses or cushions
90
What are independent nursing interventions to prevent pressure ulcers?
Turn and reposition patient every 2 hours, assess skin regularly, keep it dry
91
What are collaborative nursing interventions to prevent pneumonia & atelectasis?
Collaborate with respiratory therapy for incentive spirometry
92
What are independent nursing interventions to prevent pneumonia & atelectasis?
Encourage deep breathing and coughing exercises, elevate head of the bed, encourage fluid intake and mobilization
93
What are collaborative nursing interventions to prevent UTI & urinary retention?
Limit indwelling catheter use, encourage early removal
94
What are independent nursing interventions to prevent UTI & urinary retention?
Monitor output, encourage fluid intake, assist patient to bathroom or bedside commode
95
What are collaborative nursing interventions to prevent constipation?
Order stool softeners and laxatives, work with a dietitian for a fiber-rich diet
96
What are independent nursing interventions to prevent constipation?
Encourage hydration and ambulation, monitor bowel movements, promote high-fiber foods
97
Define traction in the context of fracture treatment.
A method used to align, immobilize, and reduce pain in fractures by applying pulling force to a limb.
98
What is internal fixation?
A surgical procedure where screws, plates, rods, or nails are placed inside the bone to stabilize the fracture.
99
What is external fixation?
A method where metal pins or screws are placed into the bone and connected to an external frame.
100
What are potential complications of internal fixation?
Infection, pain, instability, abnormal movement ## Footnote Strict sterile technique during dressing changes is crucial.
101
What are nursing interventions to prevent complications of immobility after a hip fracture?
Skin care, frequent repositioning, bed positioning, incentive spirometry, assistive devices, rotational bed therapy, bed exercises
102
Identify risk factors for Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA).
Osteoarthritis, trauma, severe joint pain, congenital deformity, joint degeneration due to rheumatoid arthritis
103
What are collaborative nursing interventions to prevent bleeding after THA?
Administer blood transfusions if needed, administer anticoagulants, monitor hemoglobin and hematocrit levels
104
What are independent nursing interventions to prevent bleeding after THA?
Monitor vital signs, surgical site dressing for excess drainage, educate patient on avoiding strenuous movement
105
What are collaborative nursing interventions to prevent dislocation of the hip prosthesis?
Collaborative physical therapy, consult orthopedic team, ensure use of hip abduction pillow if prescribed
106
What are independent nursing interventions to prevent dislocation of the hip prosthesis?
Prevent excessive hip flexion, adduction, or internal rotation; encourage use of raised toilet seats
107
What are collaborative nursing interventions to prevent VTE after THA?
Administer anticoagulant, apply sequential compression devices, collaborate with physical therapists for early ambulation
108
What are independent nursing interventions to prevent VTE after THA?
Encourage leg exercises, monitor calf pain, swelling, or warmth, assess for sudden chest pain or shortness of breath
109
What are collaborative nursing interventions to prevent infection after THA?
Administer prophylactic antibiotics, monitor wound cultures if infection is suspected
110
What are independent nursing interventions to prevent infection after THA?
Maintain strict aseptic technique during dressing changes, monitor for redness, swelling, warmth, drainage, or fever
111
What are collaborative nursing interventions to prevent heel pressure injury?
Collaborate with wound care nurses, use pressure-relieving mattresses or heel protectors
112
What are independent nursing interventions to prevent heel pressure injury?
Reposition patient every 2 hours, offload pressure from heels, keep skin clean and dry
113
What is heterotopic ossification?
Abnormal bone growth in soft tissues around a joint, often following trauma or surgery.
114
What are collaborative nursing interventions to prevent heterotopic ossification?
Administer NSAIDs or radiation therapy if prescribed, collaborate with orthopedic specialists for imaging and diagnosis
115
What are independent nursing interventions to prevent heterotopic ossification?
Assess for increasing pain, stiffness, reduce range of motion, encourage gentle mobility exercises
116
What is the correct positioning to minimize the risk of hip dislocation post-operative hip replacement?
Keep hip in abduction when turning, limited flexing of the hip; <90 degrees
117
What does ADPIE stand for in nursing?
Assess, Diagnose, Plan, Implement, Evaluate
118
What is the goal of the planning phase in managing pain for a post-operative hip fracture patient?
To have the patient's pain reduced within 30 minutes of intervention.
119
What are collaborative interventions to manage pain in a post-operative hip fracture patient?
Administer analgesics, coordinate with physical therapists, consult pain management team
120
What are independent interventions to manage pain in a post-operative hip fracture patient?
Use positioning techniques, apply cold therapy, encourage deep breathing exercises
121
What are collaborative interventions to prevent complications in post-operative THA patients?
Administer anticoagulants, administer prophylactic antibiotics, work with physical therapists
122
What are independent interventions to prevent complications in post-operative THA patients?
Encourage leg exercises, monitor for calf pain/swelling, maintain aseptic technique
123
What are the steps of the nursing process to help prevent complications in the post-operative patient with hip fracture?
Assess, Diagnose, Plan, Implement, Evaluate
124
What is the typical early mobilization schedule for a patient following THA?
Begin ambulation within 1 day after surgery using walker or crutches
125
What is the definition of elimination in a medical context?
The process of excreting waste products from the human body through the GI and urinary systems.
126
What are the attributes of optimal elimination?
Normal urine output, urine pH, urine stream ## Footnote Adult urine output: > 30 mL/hr, Child: 1-2 mL/hr
127
Identify conditions that place a patient at risk for disruptions in elimination.
Access to clean water, access to fresh fruits and vegetables, cultural factors
128
What are positive consequences of optimal elimination?
Maintaining homeostasis, socialization, normal growth, positive self-esteem
129
What are negative consequences of impaired elimination?
Frequent urination, repeated infections, low self-esteem
130
What age-related changes may affect normal elimination in geriatrics?
Weakened muscles, elevated risk of UTI, enlarged prostate in males
131
What are medical terms to describe alterations in normal elimination?
Dysuria, nocturia, hesitancy, urgency, incontinence, frequency, oliguria, anuria, polyuria
132
What diagnostics are used to evaluate elimination?
Urinalysis, stool culture, visual inspection, CT/MRI, abdominal x-ray
133
What is the pathophysiology of Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH)?
Progressive condition characterized by enlargement of prostate gland due to hormonal and cellular interactions.
134
What are risk factors for development of BPH?
Smoking, obesity, alcohol, hypertension, reduced physical activity
135
What are signs and symptoms of BPH?
Nocturia, urinary frequency, urinary retention, recurring UTIs
136
What laboratory tests are used to evaluate BPH?
Cystoscopy, digital rectal exam (DRE), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing
137
What are complications of BPH?
Kidney failure, urinary bladder stones, prostate cancer
138
What are risk factors for development of diarrhea/bowel incontinence?
Infection, food intolerance, muscle weakness
139
What are signs and symptoms of diarrhea/bowel incontinence?
Loose watery stools, abdominal pain, nausea, urgency to defecate
140
What laboratory tests are used to evaluate diarrhea/bowel incontinence?
CT, endoscopy, stool test, CBC
141
What are complications of diarrhea/bowel incontinence?
Dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, skin breakdown
142
What is the pathophysiology of urinary incontinence?
Occurs when urine leaks involuntarily due to uninhibited bladder contractions.
143
What are signs and symptoms of urinary incontinence?
Stress, urgency, overflow, functional incontinence
144
What are laboratory tests used to evaluate urinary incontinence?
Urinalysis, bladder diary, urodynamics studies
145
What are complications of urinary incontinence?
Skin breakdown, risk for infection, discomfort
146
What is Clostridium Difficile (C. diff)?
Abnormal growth of C. diff in gut flora, often due to antibiotic use.
147
What are signs and symptoms of C. diff?
Watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, fever
148
What laboratory tests are used to evaluate C. diff?
Stool samples, colonoscopy, blood tests
149
What are medical/surgical management options for C. diff?
Appropriate antibiotic treatment, fecal transplant
150
What are evidence-based measures to prevent the spread of C. diff?
Hand hygiene, contact precautions, appropriate antibiotic usage
151
What are the common symptoms of diarrhea?
Loss of appetite, abdominal pain and cramping, fever, dehydration, nausea, unresponsive to other treatments ## Footnote Symptoms indicate gastrointestinal distress and may require further investigation.
152
What laboratory tests can identify changes in C. diff?
Stool samples, colonoscopy, blood tests, X-ray or CT scans ## Footnote These tests help in diagnosing C. diff infections and assessing their severity.
153
What is a key component of the medical management for C. diff?
Appropriate antibiotic treatment, fecal transplant ## Footnote Antibiotics are crucial in managing C. diff infections, with fecal transplants being an option for recurrent cases.
154
What is the first step in the nursing process for a patient with C. diff?
Assess: antibiotic use, fever or malaise, history of hospitalization, frequent watery diarrhea, and abdominal pain or cramping ## Footnote Assessment helps in understanding the patient's condition and guiding further interventions.
155
What are some nursing diagnoses for a patient with C. diff?
Impaired skin integrity, risk for infection transmission, electrolyte imbalance, excessive fluid loss, diarrhea/watery stool ## Footnote These diagnoses guide the nursing care plan and interventions.
156
What are the goals of planning care for a patient with C. diff?
Reduced diarrhea episodes, adequate hydration, understanding of infection prevention, skin intact ## Footnote Goals focus on restoring health and preventing complications.
157
What should be implemented in the care of a patient with C. diff?
Infection control, fluid management, medications, skincare, and nutrition ## Footnote These interventions are essential for managing symptoms and preventing further complications.
158
What are some complications associated with C. diff?
Leukocytes, colitis, toxic megacolon, sepsis ## Footnote Complications can lead to severe health risks and require immediate medical attention.
159
What is the pathophysiology of constipation?
C – slow/disruption of normal bowel function, I – hardened stool becomes stuck due to prolonged constipation ## Footnote Understanding the pathophysiology aids in identifying appropriate treatment strategies.
160
What are the signs and symptoms of constipation?
Fewer than 3 bowel movements a week, abdominal distension, pain, bloating, straining of stool, elimination of small-volume, hard, dry stools ## Footnote These symptoms indicate a need for assessment and potential intervention.
161
What laboratory tests can indicate constipation?
Barium enema, sigmoidoscopy, stool testing, defecography, colonic transit studies, MRI ## Footnote These tests help evaluate the underlying causes of constipation.
162
What are some medical management strategies for constipation?
Medication, disimpaction, enemas: tap water, saline, mineral oil, or lactulose ## Footnote These treatments aim to relieve constipation and restore normal bowel function.
163
What should be assessed in a patient with constipation?
Infrequent bowel movements, straining, bloating, abdominal discomfort, hard dry stool, medication history ## Footnote Comprehensive assessment informs the nursing care plan.
164
What are complications associated with constipation?
Decreased cardiac output, fecal impaction, fissures, hemorrhoids, megacolon, rectal prolapse ## Footnote Recognizing these complications is crucial for timely intervention.
165
What is the pharmacological class of diphenoxylate and atropine?
Pharm class: opiate, Therapeutic class: antidiarrheal ## Footnote This combination is used to manage acute or chronic diarrhea.
166
What is the mechanism of action for diphenoxylate?
Slows GI mobility by binding to opioid receptors in the intestinal wall, reducing peristalsis, & increasing water absorption ## Footnote This mechanism aids in reducing diarrhea.
167
What are the adverse effects of diphenoxylate and atropine?
Drowsiness, anticholinergic effects (dry mouth), constipation, cardiac arrest ## Footnote Awareness of these effects is essential for patient safety.
168
What are the nursing interventions for patients on diphenoxylate and atropine?
Monitor patients when ambulating, recommend low dose for long periods, monitor anticholinergic effects, monitor urination patterns ## Footnote These interventions help manage potential side effects.
169
What is the pharmacological class of bisacodyl?
Pharm class: stimulant laxatives, Therapeutic class: laxatives ## Footnote Used for short-term relief of constipation and bowel impaction.
170
What is the mechanism of action for bisacodyl?
Stimulating the nerve endings in the walls of the colon, promoting peristalsis to move stool through intestines ## Footnote This action facilitates bowel movements.
171
What are the adverse effects of stimulant laxatives like bisacodyl?
Electrolyte imbalances (hypokalemia), dehydration, severe abdominal cramping, colonic damage with overuse ## Footnote Monitoring is crucial to prevent these complications.
172
What is the therapeutic use of docusate sodium?
Primarily used for relief in constipation, especially in cases where straining should be avoided ## Footnote It is often used post-surgery or childbirth to prevent straining.
173
What is the mechanism of action for docusate sodium?
Increases the water and fat content of the stool, making it softer and easier to pass ## Footnote This mechanism helps in preventing constipation.
174
What are the nursing interventions for docusate sodium?
Monitor fluids/electrolytes, abdominal assessment, monitor for adverse effects, educate patients ## Footnote Effective nursing interventions ensure patient safety and treatment efficacy.
175
What is the pharmacological class of polyethylene glycol 3350 (miraLAX)?
Pharm class: osmotic laxative, Therapeutic class: laxative ## Footnote Used for constipation relief and bowel cleansing before procedures.
176
What is the mechanism of action for polyethylene glycol 3350?
Drawing water into colon through osmosis, which softens the stool and increases the frequency of bowel movements ## Footnote This helps in managing constipation effectively.
177
What are the adverse effects of polyethylene glycol 3350?
Severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances (hypokalemia and hyponatremia), severe diarrhea, bowel perforation ## Footnote Monitoring is essential to prevent serious complications.
178
What is the therapeutic use of tamsulosin?
Management of BPH symptoms, lower urinary tract symptoms associated with BPH, can also be used for kidney stones ## Footnote It helps improve urine flow and relieve symptoms of BPH.
179
What is the mechanism of action for tamsulosin?
Relaxes the smooth muscle in prostate and bladder to improve urine flow ## Footnote This action alleviates symptoms associated with BPH.
180
What are the adverse effects of tamsulosin?
Dizziness, nausea, sexual dysfunction, diminished ejaculation, orthostatic hypotension ## Footnote These effects necessitate careful monitoring of patients.
181
What is the pharmacological class of finasteride?
Pharm class: 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, Therapeutic class: BPH ## Footnote It is primarily used to lower symptoms of BPH.
182
What is the mechanism of action for finasteride?
Blocks conversion of testosterone to DHT, reduces size of prostate ## Footnote This action helps manage symptoms of BPH effectively.
183
What are the adverse effects of finasteride?
Lowers libido, sexual dysfunction, diminished ejaculation, gynecomastia, depression ## Footnote Awareness of these effects is important for patient counseling.
184
What is the therapeutic use of metronidazole?
IV form treats anaerobic bacterial infections, oral form treats some bacterial infections and protozoal infections ## Footnote It is particularly effective for C. diff infections when other treatments are not suitable.
185
What is the mechanism of action for metronidazole?
Disrupts DNA and inhibits nucleic acid synthesis, leading to cell death ## Footnote This action is crucial in treating infections caused by anaerobic bacteria.
186
What are the adverse effects of metronidazole?
Peripheral neuropathy, severe allergic reactions, severe liver toxicity, severe CNS effects ## Footnote Monitoring for these adverse effects is essential during treatment.