Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) Practice Exam

What key information should a perianesthesia nurse share with a patient regarding phenazopyridine?

1. Needs to be taken on an empty stomach

2. Provides relief from urgency and burning sensation

3. Helps minimize bleeding and formation of blood clots

4. Treats bacteria present in the urinary tract

The correct answer is: Provides relief from urgency and burning sensation

Phenazopyridine is a medication that is specifically used to provide symptomatic relief for conditions affecting the urinary tract. It primarily alleviates discomfort caused by urinary tract irritations, which can include urgency, burning sensation, and pain during urination. By informing patients that it offers relief from urgency and burning sensations, the perianesthesia nurse helps the patient understand the intended purpose and benefits of the medication. This information is essential for managing the patient’s expectations and ensuring they recognize that while phenazopyridine helps relieve symptoms, it does not treat the underlying infection or condition that may be causing these urinary issues. In contrast, other options presented either pertain to unrelated effects or mechanisms of action. For example, phenazopyridine does not require administration on an empty stomach, it does not minimize bleeding or prevent blood clots, nor does it have antibacterial properties to treat bacteria directly in the urinary tract. Understanding these distinctions reinforces the significance of option B as the correct choice.