Antihistamines: Usage and Side Effects
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Questions and Answers

A patient with seasonal allergic rhinitis is prescribed a first-generation antihistamine. What instructions should the nurse include regarding potential side effects?

  • Increase fluid intake and take the medication in the morning to minimize nocturia.
  • Avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving, and avoid alcohol consumption. (correct)
  • Monitor blood pressure regularly, as this medication can cause hypertension.
  • Take the medication with food to prevent photosensitivity reactions.

A child is brought to the emergency department exhibiting excitation, hallucinations, and a high fever. The parents report administering an over-the-counter medication for an allergic reaction. Which of the following complications is most likely occurring?

  • Hypertensive crisis
  • Severe dehydration caused by vomiting
  • Acute toxicity from antihistamine overdose (correct)
  • Anaphylactic shock

A patient with a history of urinary retention is prescribed an antihistamine for allergy symptoms. Which antihistamine would be safest for this patient?

  • Loratadine (correct)
  • Promethazine
  • Chlorpheniramine
  • Diphenhydramine

A patient is prescribed promethazine intravenously for severe nausea. Which of the symptoms should indicate to the nurse that the infusion should be stopped immediately?

<p>Development of redness and swelling at the IV site (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client taking a first-generation antihistamine reports experiencing constipation. Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend?

<p>Increase dietary fiber and fluid intake. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient using topical decongestants for 10 days reports increased nasal congestion. What is the most likely cause?

<p>Rebound congestion from prolonged use of the medication. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are nasal drops preferred over nasal sprays for children when administering decongestants?

<p>Nasal drops allow for precise dosing, preventing potential toxicity. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a history of hypertension is prescribed an oral decongestant. What potential side effects should the nurse educate the patient about?

<p>Vasoconstriction and CNS stimulation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with closed-angle glaucoma is prescribed a medication for nasal congestion. Which medication is contraindicated for this patient?

<p>Topical decongestants (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient taking diphenhydramine (a first-generation antihistamine) reports feeling drowsy. What is the pharmacological reason for this effect?

<p>Anticholinergic effects blocking acetylcholine. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an advantage of using topical decongestants over oral decongestants?

<p>Topical agents are usually more effective and work faster. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is prescribed loratadine (a second-generation antihistamine). How does this medication differ from diphenhydramine (a first-generation antihistamine)?

<p>Loratadine is more likely to cause drowsiness. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient reports symptoms of itching, sneezing, and a runny nose. Which class of medications directly targets these symptoms?

<p>Antihistamines (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client with COPD is prescribed an inhaled bronchodilator and beclomethasone. What is the MOST important instruction a nurse should give regarding the administration of these medications?

<p>Administer the bronchodilator at least 5 minutes before the beclomethasone. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is prescribed oral prednisone for long-term management of severe asthma. Which potential adverse effect requires the MOST vigilant monitoring by the healthcare provider?

<p>Suppression of adrenal gland function (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client is prescribed beclomethasone via inhalation. What instruction is MOST important for the nurse to provide to minimize potential adverse effects?

<p>Rinse the mouth with water after each administration. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client taking long-term oral glucocorticoids is at risk for bone loss. Besides calcium and vitamin D supplementation, which intervention is MOST important to minimize this risk?

<p>Using the lowest effective dose of the glucocorticoid. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client with diabetes is prescribed oral prednisone. What is the priority nursing intervention regarding the client's medication regimen?

<p>Monitor blood glucose levels closely. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client on long-term prednisone therapy reports experiencing muscle weakness. Which action should the nurse take FIRST?

<p>Assess the client for other indications of myopathy. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client is starting inhaled beclomethasone as maintenance therapy for asthma. What should the nurse emphasize regarding the expected therapeutic effects of this medication?

<p>Decreased frequency and severity of asthma attacks. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a client receiving short-term IV glucocorticoids for status asthmaticus. What is the primary goal of this treatment?

<p>To reduce airway inflammation and edema. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with chronic asthma is prescribed oral theophylline for long-term control. What is the primary mechanism of action of this medication in achieving bronchodilation?

<p>Blocking phosphodiesterase, leading to relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient taking theophylline reports experiencing insomnia and mild gastrointestinal distress. What should the nurse recognize as the likely cause?

<p>Mild toxicity reactions due to theophylline. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is reviewing the medication list of a patient who is about to start theophylline therapy. Which of the following medications, if taken concurrently, would necessitate a decrease in theophylline dosage?

<p>Ciprofloxacin (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a history of asthma and hypertension is prescribed theophylline. What specific monitoring is most important for this patient, given their medical history?

<p>Assessing for changes in blood pressure and cardiac arrhythmias. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with asthma is prescribed both a short-acting beta2 agonist and an inhaled glucocorticoid. What is the primary reason for prescribing these medications in combination?

<p>To immediately relieve acute asthma symptoms while simultaneously reducing airway inflammation for long-term control. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is prescribed a sustained-release theophylline tablet. Which instruction should the nurse include when teaching the patient about this medication?

<p>Swallow the tablet whole without chewing or crushing it. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is prescribed salmeterol for asthma. What should the nurse include in the patient's education regarding this medication?

<p>Salmeterol is a maintenance medication used for long-term control and should not be used to treat acute asthma exacerbations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient who takes theophylline regularly consumes several cups of coffee throughout the day. What potential interaction should the nurse discuss with the patient?

<p>Caffeine can increase the risk of central nervous system and cardiac adverse effects of theophylline. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) without a spacer struggles to coordinate inhalation with the inhaler actuation. What instruction should the nurse provide to improve medication delivery?

<p>Recommend the patient to hold the inhaler 1-2 inches (2-4 cm) away from their open mouth. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a child with asthma who is prescribed theophylline. Which factor requires careful consideration related to theophylline use in this age group?

<p>Children require cautious use due to variable metabolism and potential for toxicity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient using a metered-dose inhaler reports experiencing tremors. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide?

<p>Reduce caffeine intake and notify the healthcare provider if tremors interfere with activities of daily living. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with asthma is prescribed levalbuterol. What is the primary purpose of this medication?

<p>To quickly relieve acute asthma symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Following administration of an inhaled bronchodilator via a spacer, the patient is instructed to hold their breath for 10 seconds after exhaling slowly. What is the primary rationale for this action?

<p>To enhance medication deposition and absorption in the airways. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client is being educated on how to use a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) with a spacer. What is the primary benefit of using a spacer with an MDI?

<p>It reduces the amount of medication that deposits in the mouth and throat. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with asthma reports an increase in the frequency and intensity of asthma exacerbations over the past month. What is the most appropriate initial action for the nurse to advise the patient to take?

<p>Notify their healthcare provider for further evaluation and possible adjustment of their treatment plan. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When teaching a client about using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI), the nurse should emphasize which of the following steps to ensure effective medication delivery?

<p>Exhale completely before bringing the inhaler to the mouth, then inhale slowly and deeply while activating the inhaler. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client with a history of depression is prescribed dextromethorphan for cough suppression. Which medication interaction should the nurse be most concerned about?

<p>Potential for high fever if taken within 2 weeks of MAOI antidepressants. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client who is breastfeeding asks if it's safe to take dextromethorphan for a persistent cough. What is the most appropriate nursing response?

<p>&quot;Use with caution, as the effects on the breastfeeding infant are not fully established.&quot; (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following instructions should a nurse provide to a client who has been prescribed guaifenesin?

<p>&quot;Discontinue the medication and notify your provider if a rash develops.&quot; (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client with asthma is prescribed guaifenesin for chest congestion. Which assessment finding would warrant the most immediate concern from the nurse?

<p>Complaints of increased wheezing and shortness of breath. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client is prescribed both dextromethorphan and guaifenesin for a persistent cough and chest congestion. What should the nurse emphasize when educating the client about these medications?

<p>The potential for drowsiness and the need to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for an older adult client who is prescribed dextromethorphan for cough suppression. Which of the following considerations is most important for the nurse to keep in mind?

<p>Older adults are more susceptible to the sedating effects of dextromethorphan, increasing the risk of falls. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client reports taking high doses of dextromethorphan to experience a feeling of euphoria. What is the most appropriate nursing intervention?

<p>Educate the client about the potential for abuse and dependence with dextromethorphan. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client is prescribed guaifenesin for chest congestion. The nurse should emphasize these instructions EXCEPT:

<p>Limit fluid intake so the medication isn't diluted by the excess water in the body. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Short-Acting Beta2 Agonist

Medication used to quickly relieve acute asthma symptoms.

Long-Acting Beta2 Agonist

Medications used to prevent asthma symptoms and exacerbations, providing long-term control.

Effective Asthma Medication

Includes absence of shortness of breath, clear breath sounds, absence of wheezing, and return of respiratory rate to baseline.

Short-Acting Beta2 Agonist Example

Levalbuterol is an example of this type of medication.

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Long-Acting Beta2 Agonist Examples

Formoterol and salmeterol are examples of this type of medication.

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Metered-Dose Inhaler Technique

Administer the medication by holding the inhaler 1-2 inches away from the open mouth.

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Inhaler Breathing Technique

Slow, deep breath while depressing the inhaler; hold breath for 10 seconds.

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Inhaler Spacer

This device holds medication in suspension longer, improving delivery.

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Methylxanthine

A class of drugs that includes theophylline.

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Theophylline's Action

Causes relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle, leading to bronchodilation.

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Theophylline Use

Long-term control of chronic asthma.

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Theophylline Adverse Effects

GI distress, restlessness, and insomnia are less severe; dysrhythmias and seizures are more severe.

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Theophylline Therapeutic Range

5 to 15 mcg/mL.

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Theophylline Cautions

Heart disease, hypertension, liver/kidney dysfunction, and diabetes mellitus.

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Caffeine Interaction

Increases CNS and cardiac adverse effects; increases theophylline levels.

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Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Rifampin interactions.

Decreases theophylline levels; increase theophylline dosage.

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COPD Medication Goal

Medication effectiveness in COPD focuses on controlling bronchospasms.

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Examples of Glucocorticoids

Some Glucocorticoids include Beclomethasone (inhaled) and Prednisone (oral).

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Glucocorticoid Actions

Glucocorticoids prevent inflammation, suppress mucus, and improve beta2 receptor response.

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Glucocorticoid Uses

Glucocorticoids treat status asthmaticus, prevent asthma long-term, and manage acute episodes.

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Beclomethasone Side Effects

Beclomethasone: Difficulty speaking, hoarseness, and candidiasis. Rinse mouth after use.

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Prednisone Long-Term Effects

Long-term Prednisone can cause adrenal suppression. Monitor blood glucose.

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Glucocorticoid Complications

Bone loss: Use lowest dose, calcium and vitamin D intake. Hyperglycemia: Monitor glucose, adjust insulin.

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Glucocorticoid Complications

Myopathy: Muscle weakness; decrease dosage, report issues. PUD: Take with food, avoid NSAIDs, report tarry stools.

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Antihistamine Use

Used for mild allergic reactions like seasonal allergic rhinitis and urticaria.

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1st Gen Antihistamine Side Effects

Drowsiness, dry mouth, and constipation.

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Antihistamine GI Discomfort

Taking with meals can prevent GI discomfort.

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Antihistamine Interactions

Additive CNS depression.

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Effective Antihistamine

Absence of rhinitis and urticaria.

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Rebound congestion

Nasal congestion that worsens with prolonged use of topical decongestants, leading to a cycle of increasing use.

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CNS stimulation (from decongestants)

Agitation, nervousness, or uneasiness caused by decongestants, particularly oral forms.

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Vasoconstriction (from decongestants)

Constriction of blood vessels, which can be a side effect of decongestants.

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Position for nasal drops

Lateral, head-low position.

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Topical vs. Oral decongestants

Topical agents act faster, while oral agents avoid rebound congestion.

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Antihistamine Action

They block histamine release, relieving itching, sneezing, and runny nose.

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1st-generation antihistamine side effects

They cause drowsiness and anticholinergic effects.

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Anticholinergic

Medications that block the action of acetylcholine.

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Dextromethorphan

A non-opioid medication that suppresses coughing by acting on the central nervous system (CNS).

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Dextromethorphan Use

Cough suppression. It can reduce pain when combined with an opioid.

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Dextromethorphan Side Effects

Nausea, dizziness, and sedation are possible. High doses can cause euphoria, leading to abuse.

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Dextromethorphan Precautions

Use with caution when lactating. Avoid within 2 weeks of MAOI antidepressants due to risk of high fever.

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Dextromethorphan Effectiveness

Medication effectiveness is evaluated by absence or decreased episodes of coughing.

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Guaifenesin

Guaifenesin promotes increased cough production by increasing and thinning mucous secretions, decreasing chest congestion

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Guaifenesin Use

Primarily used as an expectorant alone, but often combined with antitussives or a decongestant to treat colds, allergic or nonallergic rhinitis, or for cough caused by lower respiratory disorders.

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Guaifenesin Side Effects

GI upset (take with food), drowsiness, dizziness (do not take prior to driving), allergic reaction/rash (stop taking if it occurs).

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