A provider prescribes diazepam (Valium) to a client who was ...

[student77]

A provider prescribes diazepam (Valium) to a client who was bitten by a black widow spider. The client asks, What is this medication for? How should the nurse respond?
 
  a. This medication is an antivenom for this type of bite.
  b. It will relieve your muscle rigidity and spasms.
  c. It prevents respiratory difficulty from excessive secretions.
  d. This medication will prevent respiratory failure.

Question 2

A nurse is teaching a wilderness survival class. Which statements should the nurse include about the prevention of hypothermia and frostbite? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Wear synthetic clothing instead of cotton to keep your skin dry.
  b. Drink plenty of fluids. Brandy can be used to keep your body warm.
  c. Remove your hat when exercising to prevent the loss of heat.
  d. Wear sunglasses to protect skin and eyes from harmful rays.
  e. Know your physical limits. Come in out of the cold when limits are reached.

[Rilsmarie951]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Black widow spider venom produces a syndrome known as latrodectism, which manifests as severe abdominal pain, muscle rigidity and spasm, hypertension, and nausea and vomiting. Diazepam is a muscle relaxant that can relieve pain related to muscle rigidity and spasms. It does not prevent respiratory difficulty or failure.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, D, E
To prevent hypothermia and frostbite, the nurse should teach clients to wear synthetic clothing (which moves moisture away from the body and dries quickly), layer clothing, and wear a hat, facemask, sunscreen, and sunglasses. The client should also be taught to drink plenty of fluids, but to avoid alcohol when participating in winter activities. Clients should know their physical limits and come in out of the cold when these limits have been reached.