Clayton’s Basic Pharmacology for Nurses, 18th EDITION BY WILLIHNGANZ

. A patient has questions regarding a recently prescribed antitussive agent. Which response by the nurse is the best? a. “It will eliminate your cough at night.” b. “It will reduce the frequency of your cough.” c. “It should be used in the morning.” d. “It should be taken before sleep.” ANS: B Antitussive agents act by suppressing the cough center in the brain. The expected therapeutic outcome is reduced frequency of nonproductive cough to promote rest. Antitussive agents should be taken as prescribed by the healthcare provider. Antitussives are not likely to eliminate a cough. Antitussives should be taken throughout the day. DIF: Cognitive Level: Comprehension REF: p. 468 OBJ: 3 NAT: NCLEX Client Needs Category: Physiological Integrity TOP: Nursing Process Step: Implementation CON: Clinical Judgment | Patient Education 2. Which is a common expectorant in over-the-counter medications? a. Dextromethorphan b. Diphenhydramine c. Guaifenesin d. Codeine ANS: C Guaifenesin is used for symptomatic relief of conditions characterized by a dry, nonproductive cough such as the common cold, bronchitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, and sinusitis. Guaifenesin is also used to remove mucous plugs from the respiratory tract. Dextromethorphan is an antitussive. Diphenhydramine is an anticholinergic agent with antihistaminic and antitussive properties. Codeine is an antitussive. DIF: Cognitive Level: Knowledge REF: p. 472 OBJ: 3 NAT: NCLEX Client Needs Category: Physiological Integrity TOP: Nursing Process Step: Implementation CON: Clinical Judgment 3. What is the reason for administering sodium chloride to a patient with emphysema? a. To increase blood sodium levels b. To decrease mucus viscosity c. To reduce metabolic needs of the body d. To decrease bronchial irritation ANS: B Sodium chloride acts by hydrating mucus. This will decrease the viscosity of mucous plugs, which makes it easier for patients to cough up the dry hardened plugs blocking the bronchial tubes. Sodium chloride is not given to increase serum sodium iodide levels. Sodium does not reduce metabolic needs of the body or bronchial irritation