Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 73%
Simulated
After taking the medication guaifenesin (Mucinex), the client complains of coughing up phlegm. What is the best response by the nurse?
Correct answer
Guaifenesin is an expectorant that loosens mucus, making coughing up phlegm a normal response. It's not indicative of more pathology, an allergic reaction, or a need for investigation unless symptoms worsen unusually.
Rationale
Step 1: Identify the medication's action - Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps loosen and thin mucus in the airways.
Step 2: Understand the expected response - Coughing up phlegm after taking guaifenesin is a normal response due to the medication's action.
Step 3: Evaluate the other choices - A, B, and C are incorrect because coughing up phlegm is not indicative of more pathology, an allergic reaction, or a need for further investigation in this context.
Step 4: Choose the correct response - Option G correctly acknowledges that coughing up phlegm is a normal response to guaifenesin and does not suggest any unnecessary concerns or actions.
Step 2: Understand the expected response - Coughing up phlegm after taking guaifenesin is a normal response due to the medication's action.
Step 3: Evaluate the other choices - A, B, and C are incorrect because coughing up phlegm is not indicative of more pathology, an allergic reaction, or a need for further investigation in this context.
Step 4: Choose the correct response - Option G correctly acknowledges that coughing up phlegm is a normal response to guaifenesin and does not suggest any unnecessary concerns or actions.