A patient reports having taken a large dose of ascorbic acid ...

[jlmhmf]

A patient reports having taken a large dose of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and is experiencing diarrhea and gastrointestinal upset. The nurse will prepare to take which action?
 
  a. Administer activated charcoal.
  b. Administer sodium bicarbonate.
  c. Perform gastric lavage.
  d. Provide symptomatic care.

Question 2

A patient reports taking megadoses of vitamin C to prevent upper respiratory infections. The nurse will perform which action?
 
  a. Monitor the patient for hyperglycemia.
  b. Notify the provider and discuss a gradual taper of vitamin C.
  c. Request an order for a CBC to assess the patient's hemoglobin.
  d. Tell the patient that studies have confirmed this use of vitamin C.

[jjorrostieta]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
The patient is experiencing uncomfortable side effects of excess vitamin C intake, but they are not life-threatening, so no antidotes or treatment are indicated.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Patients who take megadoses of vitamin C should be weaned off gradually to avoid vitamin deficiency. Vitamin C can produce a false positive Clinitest but does not affect blood glucose. It does not affect hemoglobin. Studies have not demonstrated the effectiveness of vitamin C in preventing or treating colds.

[jlmhmf]

TYSM

[vickyvicksss]

Gracias!