A patient comes to the clinic with a 3-day history of fever and a ...

[beccaep]

A patient comes to the clinic with a 3-day history of fever and a severe cough that interferes with sleep. The patient asks the NP about using a cough suppressant to help with sleep. The NP should:
 
  a. order a narcotic antitussive to suppress cough.
  b. obtain a thorough history of the patient's symptoms.
  c. suggest that the patient try a guaifenesin-only over-the-counter product.
  d. prescribe an antibiotic to treat the underlying cause of the patient's cough.

Question 2

A patient who has type 2 diabetes mellitus will begin taking a bile acid sequestrant. Which bile acid sequestrant should the primary care NP order?
 
  a. Colesevelam (Welchol)
  b. Colestipol (Colestid)
  c. Cholestyramine (Questran)
  d. Cholestyramine (Questran Light)

[Sammyo]

Answer to Question 1

B
It is important to determine the underlying disorder that is causing the cough to rule out serious causes of cough. The NP should obtain a thorough history before prescribing any treatment. A narcotic antitussive may be used after serious causes are ruled out. Guaifenesin may be used to make nonproductive coughs more productive. Antibiotics are indicated only for a proven bacterial infection.

Answer to Question 2

A
All bile acid sequestrants are equally effective. Colesevelam has an additional indication to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes and so should be selected when prescribing a bile acid sequestrant for this patient.

[beccaep]

Both answers were spot on, thank you once again

[Sammyo]

Great! Please up vote