A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who has a new prescription for acetylcysteine.For which of the following conditions should the nurse expect to administer this medication?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationaleAcetylcysteine is the antidote for acetaminophen toxicity. It replenishes glutathione stores and detoxifies N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI), a toxic metabolite, preventing liver damage.Choice B rationaleAcetylcysteine does not have a role in treating gastrointestinal bleeds. Management of gastrointestinal bleeds typically involves hemostatic agents, proton pump inhibitors, and endoscopic interventions.Choice C rationaleAcute bronchospasm is treated with bronchodilators like albuterol, not acetylcysteine. While acetylcysteine is a mucolytic, it does not address bronchoconstriction or airway inflammation.Choice D rationaleMorphine toxicity is treated with naloxone, an opioid antagonist. Acetylcysteine has no effect on opioid receptors and cannot reverse the central nervous system and respiratory depression caused by morphine.