A client is teaching a client who has a new prescription for hydrochlorothiazide for management of hypertension. Which of the following Instructions should the nurse include?
"Reduce intake of potassium-rich foods."
"Take this medication before bedtime."
"Avoid grape juice.'
"Monitor for leg cramps."
The Correct Answer is D
A) "Reduce intake of potassium-rich foods":
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic medication that can cause potassium loss through increased urinary excretion. Therefore, instructing the client to reduce intake of potassium-rich foods could further decrease potassium levels, leading to hypokalemia. Instead, clients taking hydrochlorothiazide should be encouraged to consume potassium-rich foods to help maintain normal potassium levels, unless otherwise instructed by their healthcare provider.
B) "Take this medication before bedtime":
While hydrochlorothiazide can be taken once daily, it is typically recommended to take it in the morning rather than before bedtime. Taking the medication earlier in the day can help minimize the need to wake up during the night to urinate, as it is a diuretic that increases urine production. Therefore, instructing the client to take hydrochlorothiazide before bedtime is not the optimal recommendation.
C) "Avoid grape juice":
There is no significant interaction between hydrochlorothiazide and grape juice. In general, grapefruit juice is known to interact with certain medications by inhibiting cytochrome P450 enzymes in the liver, affecting drug metabolism. However, grape juice is not known to interact with hydrochlorothiazide, so advising the client to avoid grape juice is not necessary.
D) "Monitor for leg cramps":
This is the correct instruction. Leg cramps can be a potential side effect of hydrochlorothiazide therapy due to electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypokalemia. By monitoring for leg cramps, the client can promptly report any symptoms to their healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. This instruction promotes client safety and awareness of potential adverse effects associated with the medication."
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) "Take the medication with a full glass of water":
This is the correct answer. Docusate is a stool softener used to treat constipation by promoting the incorporation of water into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Taking docusate with a full glass of water helps facilitate its action by ensuring hydration and aiding in the softening of stool.
B) "Take this medication on an empty stomach":
Taking docusate on an empty stomach is not necessary. It can be taken with or without food. The primary consideration is to take it with an adequate amount of water to facilitate its stool-softening effect.
C) "Do not take this medication before bedtime":
There is no specific contraindication to taking docusate before bedtime. The timing of administration can vary based on individual preferences and bowel habits. Some individuals may prefer to take it before bedtime to promote a bowel movement in the morning, while others may take it at different times of the day.
D) "Expect abdominal pain with this medication":
Abdominal pain is an uncommon side effect of docusate. While it may occur in some individuals, it is not a common or expected reaction to the medication. Most people tolerate docusate well, but gastrointestinal side effects such as mild abdominal cramping, nausea, or diarrhea may occur in some cases.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Bicarbonate:
While bicarbonate levels may be relevant in some cases, they are not typically a primary consideration before administering furosemide. Furosemide primarily affects electrolyte balance, particularly potassium and sodium, rather than bicarbonate levels.
B) Potassium:
This is the correct answer. Before administering furosemide, it is essential to review the client's potassium levels because furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to potassium depletion. Monitoring potassium levels helps prevent hypokalemia, which can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias and other complications, especially in clients with heart failure.
C) Phosphate:
Phosphate levels are not typically a primary concern before administering furosemide. Furosemide primarily affects sodium and potassium levels rather than phosphate levels.
D) Carbon dioxide:
Carbon dioxide levels are not typically a primary consideration before administering furosemide. Furosemide primarily affects electrolyte balance rather than carbon dioxide levels.
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