Introduction to Pharmacology - GCU
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,What nursing considerations should be taken when administering Diphenhydramine
(Benadryl)?
Correct Answer:
Avoid use with alcohol or CNS depressants; educate about drowsiness; avoid driving
Expert Rationale:
Diphenhydramine, a first-generation antihistamine, readily crosses the blood-brain barrier,
leading to pronounced CNS depression and sedation. Concomitant use with alcohol or other
CNS depressants potentiates these effects, significantly increasing fall and accident risk.
Patient education about potential drowsiness and the imperative to avoid driving or
operating heavy machinery is essential to safeguard patient safety and prevent adverse events.
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Is Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) recommended for neonates or patients with acute asthma?
Correct Answer:
Not recommended
Expert Rationale:
In neonates, diphenhydramine is associated with an increased risk of severe respiratory
depression and paradoxical CNS excitation, making its use contraindicated in this age group.
In patients with acute asthma, anticholinergic and drying effects can thicken bronchial
secretions, exacerbating airway obstruction and worsening respiratory status. Evidence-based
guidelines uniformly advise against its use in these populations.
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,What is the class of Dextromethorphan?
Correct Answer:
Antitussive
Expert Rationale:
Dextromethorphan is classified as a centrally acting antitussive agent. Its primary therapeutic
use is to suppress cough by modulating neural pathways in the brainstem.
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What is the indication for Dextromethorphan?
Correct Answer:
Nonproductive cough
Expert Rationale:
Dextromethorphan is indicated for the management of nonproductive, dry cough to improve
comfort and reduce unnecessary energy expenditure due to coughing, without impairing
airway clearance of secretions needed in productive cough.
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What is the mechanism of action of Dextromethorphan?
Correct Answer:
Acts on cough center in medulla to suppress cough reflex
Expert Rationale:
, Dextromethorphan suppresses the cough reflex by acting directly on the medullary cough
center in the central nervous system, thus diminishing the urge to cough.
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What are key side effects of Dextromethorphan?
Correct Answer:
Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea
Expert Rationale:
As a centrally acting agent, dextromethorphan can cause mild CNS depression, evident as
drowsiness or dizziness. Gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, is also a known adverse effect.
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What nursing consideration should be taken with Dextromethorphan in patients with
asthma?
Correct Answer:
Caution in asthma
Expert Rationale:
Though generally safe, antitussive agents can suppress the protective cough reflex, increasing
risk of mucus retention and airway obstruction in asthma patients. Close monitoring is
advised.
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