Pharmacology Drugs and Treatments Overview

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Questions and Answers

What medication is indicated for treating hypotension during neurogenic shock?

Baclofen

Norepinephrine (correct)

Docusate sodium

Atropine

Which medication should be monitored for drowsiness and muscle weakness?

Heparin

Bethanechol

Baclofen (correct)

Atropine

What is the main use of dextran in a clinical setting?

For DVT prophylaxis

To reduce muscle spasticity

As a pain reliever

As a volume expander for hypotension (correct)

Which of the following medications decreases bladder spasticity?

Bethanechol Signup and view all the answers

What should be monitored when administering anticoagulants?

Gastrointestinal bleeding Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a halo fixation device in clients with cervical fractures?

To provide traction and immobilize the spinal column Signup and view all the answers

What nursing action is essential for clients who have cervical tongs applied?

Ensuring that the weights hang freely and maintain body alignment Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a major complication to monitor after an anterior cervical fusion?

Airway compromise due to swelling or hemorrhage Signup and view all the answers

If a client goes home with a halo fixation device, what is a crucial aspect of their education?

To follow instructions for pin and vest care Signup and view all the answers

What is typically done to relieve pressure on the spinal cord during a decompressive laminectomy?

Removal of a section of the lamina Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary responsibility when caring for a client with a halo fixation device?

Ensure that halo weights hang freely. Signup and view all the answers

Which action is essential when a client has undergone spinal fusion?

Assess neurologic status every hour. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common outcome of a spinal fusion procedure?

Permanent loss of range of motion in the fused area. Signup and view all the answers

Which nursing action should be performed to monitor for airway complications after an anterior cervical fusion?

Observe for tracheal deviation. Signup and view all the answers

When is donor bone typically harvested for spinal fusion procedures?

From the iliac crest during the procedure. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key nursing action to assist a client with pneumonia or septicemia?

Assist the client to cough and deep breathe. Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is primarily associated with changes in position and blood pooling in the lower extremities?

Orthostatic hypotension. Signup and view all the answers

What intervention can help mitigate the effects of orthostatic hypotension in a client?

Using thigh-high elastic hose. Signup and view all the answers

How frequently should a client be turned and repositioned to reduce respiratory complications?

Every 2 hours. Signup and view all the answers

What should be monitored in a client with spinal cord injury to assess their respiratory status?

Client’s respirations and pulse oximeter readings. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main characteristics of spinal shock?

Flaccid paralysis below the level of injury Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following symptoms is associated with neurogenic shock?

Hypotension Signup and view all the answers

Why is maintaining mean arterial pressure at least 85 mm Hg important after spinal injury?

To prevent further damage to the spinal cord Signup and view all the answers

What causes the symptoms of dependent edema in neurogenic shock?

Loss of communication within the sympathetic nervous system Signup and view all the answers

What nursing intervention might be warranted to treat adverse findings in a patient experiencing neurogenic shock?

Administer vasopressors as prescribed Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Vasopressors

Norepinephrine and dopamine treat hypotension, especially in neurogenic shock.

Antimuscarinic Agents

Atropine treats bradycardia.

Plasma Expanders

Dextran is a volume expander used for hypotension from spinal shock.
Observe for fluid overload.

Muscle Relaxants

Baclofen and dantrolene treat severe muscle spasticity.
Monitor for drowsiness and muscle weakness.
Baclofen can be given intrathecally to reduce sedation.

Cholinergics

Bethanechol reduces bladder spasticity to aid bladder training and reduce accidents.
Observe for urinary retention.
Measure residual urine periodically.

Analgesics

Opioids, non-opioids, and NSAIDs treat pain.

Anticoagulants

Heparin or low-molecular-weight heparins prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Monitor INR, PT, and aPTT for therapeutic anticoagulation levels.
Watch for gastrointestinal bleeding or bleeding from unidentified injuries.

Stool Softeners/Bulk-Forming Laxatives

Docusate sodium or polycarbophil prevent constipation by keeping stool soft.

Vasodilators

Hydralazine and nitroglycerin treat hypertension during autonomic dysreflexia (PRN).
Monitor blood pressure frequently.

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Description

This quiz covers essential pharmacology topics, including vasopressors, antimuscarinic agents, plasma expanders, and more. Test your knowledge on the uses, effects, and monitoring aspects of various medications, such as opioids and anticoagulants. Perfect for students in medical or nursing programs.