Question

Multiple-choice question: A patient who has been taking the medication carbamazepine (Tegretol) tells the nurse that he has been continually nauseated. Th e nurse should explain to the patient that the nausea may be decreased if the medication is: Exercise 3.53 A. Decreased in dosage B. Taken at bedtime C. Supplemented with zinc D. Taken with food

Short answer

The best solution to handle nausea triggered by Tegretol is to take the medication with food (Option D).

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Carbamazepine (Tegretol)

Carbamazepine (Tegretol) is a medication often utilized in the treatment of certain types of seizures in epilepsy, as well as neuropathic pain and bipolar disorder. Side-effects of Tegretol can include: dizziness, drowsiness, unsteadiness, nausea, and vomiting.

Identifying the problem

From the question, we can understand that the patient is experiencing continual nausea which is a common side-effect of Carbamazepine (Tegretol).

Understanding the Options

Option A suggests decreasing the dosage: this should only be done under the prescription of a healthcare professional, not a nurse. Plus, there is no indication that the nausea is due to an overdose. Option B suggests taking the medication at bedtime: this could potentially help with some side effects but not specifically nausea. Option C suggests supplementing with zinc: there's no specific link between zinc supplementation and relief from nausea caused by Tegretol. Option D suggests the medication be taken with food: this can help minimize gastric irritation and potentially reduce nausea caused by the medication.

Choose the Correct Response

The best and safest option to manage nausea triggered by Tegretol is to take the medication with food, as this can minimize the stomach upset, thus reducing the feeling of nausea. Therefore, the correct answer is D. Taken with food.

Key concepts

Pharmacology Education

Understanding medications and their side effects is fundamental in pharmacology education. In this context, knowledge about carbamazepine, commonly known as Tegretol, is essential. This drug is primarily prescribed for managing seizures in epilepsy, controlling neuropathic pain, and treating bipolar disorder. Like many medications, Tegretol comes with its share of side effects which include dizziness, drowsiness, and notably, nausea and vomiting. This knowledge equips healthcare professionals with the necessary information to anticipate, identify, and manage adverse effects in patients effectively. Since nausea is a common side effect of carbamazepine, understanding how to mitigate this symptom is crucial in both pharmacological studies and practice. It allows students to better comprehend why certain medications should be taken at specific times or in combination with food. This understanding aids in preparing for real-world scenarios by ensuring patient education is comprehensive and supportive.

Nursing Interventions

Nursing interventions play a pivotal role in patient care, particularly when managing medication side effects. When patients report symptoms like nausea due to carbamazepine intake, nurses must implement effective strategies to alleviate the discomfort. A primary intervention, in this case, involves advising the patient to take their medication with food. By doing so, nurses help minimize gastric irritation, which can reduce the experience of nausea significantly. Additionally, in some cases, the timing of medication can also affect side effects; however, this requires careful consideration and often physician approval when altering dosing schedules. Through consistent monitoring and communication, nurses can make informed recommendations.

Nurses also provide ongoing education and support, ensuring that the patient adheres to medication protocols that mitigate side effects. This part of the intervention process highlights the necessity for nurses to be vigilant and proactive in their roles, creating care plans that are both safe and effective for the patient.

Patient Care Strategies

Patient care strategies focus on creating comprehensive plans to enhance overall health outcomes, especially when dealing with medication side effects. One effective strategy includes educating patients on the importance of taking specific medications with food, as is the case with carbamazepine. By doing so, nurses help manage symptoms such as nausea, thereby improving the patient's quality of life. Additionally, care strategies may include routine assessments to ensure that the medication is not causing additional harmful effects.

• Assessment and monitoring of symptoms: Regular check-ins allow healthcare providers to track improvements or worsening of side effects, adjusting the care plan as necessary.
• Patient education: Informing patients about potential side effects and the reasoning behind taking medication with food empowers them to manage their health proactively.
• Collaborative care: Working closely with other healthcare professionals, including pharmacists and physicians, ensures a holistic approach to medication management.

Understanding these strategies is crucial for students preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam, as they will often be tested on their ability to implement comprehensive patient care plans effectively. By reinforcing these concepts, future nurses are better prepared to provide optimal care and improve patient outcomes.