The nurse is conducting a pre-surgical interview when it is noted ...

[serike]

The nurse is conducting a pre-surgical interview when it is noted that the older adult patient's medication list includes Tylenol 650 mg four times a day for arthritic pain, gingko 80 mg twice a day, and glucosamine chondroitin 500 mg three times per day.
 
  a. glucosamine chondroitin for 1 to 2 weeks due to a potential for excess anes-thetic sedation
  b. ginkgo for 2 weeks due to the potential for increased bleeding
  c. Tylenol for 24 to 48 hours due to the potential for increased bleeding
  d. gingko for 1 week due to the potential for an allergic reaction during surgery

Question 2

An older adult client is being seen for the first time at the outpatient geriatric clinic. As a component of the nursing admission history, the nurse inquires about the use of herbs and other supplements. The basis for this inquires is that such herbal th
 
  a. may interact with prescription medications
  b. are hazardous when used by older adults
  c. replace the need for prescription medications
  d. cause excessive sedation in older adults

[Ashley I]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
It is recommended that ginkgo be discontinued for 2 weeks preoperatively due to the poten-tial for increased bleeding. There is no evidence that ginkgo is associated with allergic reac-tions during surgery. There are no recommendations for discontinuation of glucosamine chondroitin, and glucosamine is not associated with a potential for increased sedation from anesthetics. Tylenol is not associated with a potential for increased bleeding.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The gerontological nurse has the obligation to ask questions and obtain specific information about the use of herbs and supplements because they may interact with prescription medica-tions. When used cautiously and with knowledge of potential interactions with other medications, herbs and supplements are not hazardous. They do not replace the need for prescription medications. Not all herbs and supplements cause excessive sedation.