A Nurse Counsels a Patient Who Is to Begin Taking

question 4

Multiple Choice

A nurse counsels a patient who is to begin taking gamma-hydroxybutyrate [Xyrem] for narcolepsy. It is important for the nurse to warn the patient that respiratory depression is a potential risk with concomitant use of:

• A) alcohol.
• B) beta blockers.
• C) caffeine.
• D) nicotine.

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Definitions:

Intravenous (IV) Line

A healthcare instrument designed for administering liquids, drugs, or nourishment straight into a blood vessel.

IV Solution

A sterile liquid substance administered directly into a vein through an intravenous line for therapeutic or hydration purposes.

Respiratory Alkalosis

A condition where there is too much alkaline (bicarbonate) in the body due to excessive breathing, leading to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels.

Blood Gas

A test that measures the amounts of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood, often used to assess lung function and how well the lungs are able to move oxygen into the blood and remove carbon dioxide.