NURS 3100 Exam 1 Practice

Which remedy should be administered to a patient who has overdosed on an acidic drug?

1. Ammonium chloride

2. Sodium bicarbonate

3. Intravenous fluids

4. Intravenous proteins

The correct answer is: Ammonium chloride

When a patient has overdosed on an acidic drug, the pH of the blood becomes acidic. To counteract this acidic environment, an alkaline substance is needed. Ammonium chloride, which is an acidic substance, would further lower the pH and worsen the situation. Sodium bicarbonate, on the other hand, is a basic (alkaline) substance that can help neutralize the excess acid in the body, making it the appropriate remedy for a patient who has overdosed on an acidic drug. Intravenous fluids and intravenous proteins do not directly address the issue of acidosis caused by the overdose of an acidic drug. While these options may be part of the treatment plan for a patient who has overdosed, the primary concern in this case is to counteract the acidic effects of the drug, which is best achieved through administration of a basic substance like sodium bicarbonate.