Question

A 70 yr. old patient with acute sinusitis has been prescribed decongestant medication. At this age, he is at a greater risk for developing side effects due to over dosage. Which of the following symptoms of over dosage should the nurse monitor for when caring for the patient? Select all that apply.

A. Hallucination
B. Dyspnea
C. Convulsion
D. Depression
E. Fatigue

Answer 1

The nurse should monitor for hallucination, dyspnea, and convulsion as signs of decongestant overdose in an elderly patient. Depression and fatigue are less typical as primary symptoms of decongestant overdose but should still be considered.

Step-by-step explanation:

A 70-year-old patient with acute sinusitis who has been prescribed decongestant medication should be carefully monitored for symptoms of overdose. At this age, they are at greater risk for developing serious side effects. The nurse should monitor for the following symptoms which suggest an overdose:

• Hallucination: This can be a sign of an overdose, especially with certain cough medications and is a concerning side effect.
• Dyspnea: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath can be indicative of a medication overdose.
• Convulsion: Seizures are serious symptoms of an overdose and should prompt immediate medical attention.

It is not typical for decongestants to cause depression or fatigue as primary symptoms of overdose, although these can be side effects of many medications at high doses. The nurse should prioritize looking for symptoms that affect the respiratory system, neurological condition, and mental state of the patient.