Chapter 21, Problem 1CS

(1)

Summary Introduction

To determine:

Before J. picks up the prescription, the nurse assesses for contraindications to scopolamine. What are the contraindications to the use of the scopolamine patch?

Case summary:

J., a 53-year-old schoolteacher, is going on a cruise to Alaska with her husband, L., for their thirtieth anniversary. She is very excited about the trip but is also worried because she gets “very seasick” whenever she is on a boat. She calls her doctor’s office for a prescription for a medicine for motion sickness. Her physician prescribes transdermal scopolamine (Transderm-Scop).

(2)

Summary Introduction

To answer:

The nurse provides patient education and J. indicates that she understands how to use the patch. On the first day of the cruise, she applies the patch 4 hours before they board the ship. That evening, J. and L., go to dinner. J. is feeling somewhat drowsy, but thirsty. The waiter asks if they would like to have champagne as part of the first-night-of-the-cruise celebration. How should J. respond?

Case summary:

J., a 53-year-old schoolteacher, is going on a cruise to Alaska with her husband, L., for their thirtieth anniversary. She is very excited about the trip but is also worried because she gets “very seasick” whenever she is on a boat. She calls her doctor’s office for a prescription for a medicine for motion sickness. Her physician prescribes transdermal scopolamine (Transderm-Scop).

(3)

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The next morning, while out on the deck, L. is taking pictures of the bright, snow-covered shoreline views. L. looks at J. and exclaims, “Look at your eyes! Is that a side effect of that patch? What has L. noticed about J.’s blue eyes? What would you suggest for J. because of what L. has noticed?

Case summary:

J., a 53-year-old schoolteacher, is going on a cruise to Alaska with her husband, L., for their thirtieth anniversary. She is very excited about the trip but is also worried because she gets “very seasick” whenever she is on a boat. She calls her doctor’s office for a prescription for a medicine for motion sickness. Her physician prescribes transdermal scopolamine (Transderm-Scop).

(4)

Summary Introduction

To determine:

Later that day, J.tells L. “I’m feeling great! I don’t think I need this patch. I’m going to take it off, but I’ll save it for later in case I get nauseated,” Is this a good idea. Explain your answer.

Case summary:

J., a 53-year-old schoolteacher, is going on a cruise to Alaska with her husband, L., for their thirtieth anniversary. She is very excited about the trip but is also worried because she gets “very seasick” whenever she is on a boat. She calls her doctor’s office for a prescription for a medicine for motion sickness. Her physician prescribes transdermal scopolamine (Transderm-Scop).