Pharmacological Therapies Flashcards
The LPN is reviewing a client’s medication list. The LPN notices that the client has a penicillin allergy & has a pending prescription for ampicillin. This is an example of a medication ___.
contraindication
Medication contraindications occur when a medication is not recommended or contraindicated for a client based on the client’s medical history. The client described above has a penicillin allergy & should not be prescribed ampicillin. The LPN is then responsible for clarifying orders with the prescribing healthcare provider.
A client taking atorvastatin should avoid ___ in their diet.
grapefruit/grapefruit juice
Atorvastatin & simvastatin, medications for cholesterol management, should not be taken with grapefruit juice. The enzyme needed to break down these medications is blocked by grapefruit.
What antibiotic or antibiotic classes have a known side effect of causing a metallic taste in the mouth?
Fluoroquinolones, Metronidazole, & Clindamycin
These antibiotics may cause a metallic taste in the mouth. The risk increases with an increased dose of clindamycin.
the LPN is reinforcing teaching to a client who will be taking digoxin at home. ___ is the most important vital sign for the client or caregiver to monitor.
heart rate
Digoxin is prescribed to treat congestive heart failure & to decrease the heart rate in clients with some arrhythmias. The LPN should instruct the client to monitor his/her pulse prior to taking the medication.
What is one of the most common side effects of ACE inhibitors?
chronic dry cough
ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors inhibit kinanase II. When kinins accumulate in the respiratory tract, they can cause a chronic dry cough
Elderly clients with kidney disease are at increased risk for adverse drug reactions due to ___.
decreased drug excretion
Elderly clients with decreased renal function may have issues with drug excretion due to decreased renal blood flow & glomerular filtration rate.
St John’s wort is an over-the-counter supplement that is typically taken for ___.
depression
St John’s wort is typically used as a treatment for depression. Clients taking St John’s wort should not take additional prescription antidepressants.
What type of drug typically is the root cause of extrapyramidal effects?
antipsychotic drugs
Antipsychotic drugs that block dopamine receptors can cause extrapyramidal effects (Physical symptoms, including tremor, slurred speech, akathesia, dystonia, anxiety, distress, paranoia, and bradyphrenia)
What drug has a side effect of red-orange urine or tears?
Rifampin
Rifampin is a drug used to treat tuberculosis, & it commonly causes red-orange urine and/or tears
___ should be avoided in the diet of clients taking MAOIs.
Tyramine
Consumption of tyramine (found in figs, raisins, aged cheese, pepperoni, beer, etc) can cause severe hypertension in clients taking a MAOI.
A ___ may be used to assess a client’s pain prior to & following administration of a pain medication.
pain rating scale
LPNs who administer pain medications should assess & document the client’s pain both prior to & following administration of the medication.
What lab value should be closely monitored for a client taking Clozaril?
white blood cell count
Clozaril can cause neutropenia, so the client’s white blood cell count should be closely monitored.
What is the dangerous side effect of opioid overdose?
respiratory depression
Excessive opioids can induce respiratory depression leading to death.
What is the most common, preventable side effect of opioids?
constipation
Opioids can cause decreased gastric motility, which can lead to constipation. The client may be advised to take a stool softener in conjunction with opiods.
When reinforcing teaching of a client prescribed an antibiotic for a urinary tract infection, what common side effect should the LPN discuss?
diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common side effect of antibiotics, & clients may want to consider probiotics or yogurt to assist with bowel function.
