A client who has been taking allopurinol prophylactically comes into the clinic with reoccurring gout attack episodes in left ankle. The healthcare provider changes the prescription to febuxostat. Which instruction should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
Eat high protein foods to achieve ideal body weight.
Report experiencing right upper quadrant discomfort.
Use electric heating pad when pain is at its worse.
Replace dietary table salt with salt substitutes.
The Correct Answer is B
Febuxostat is a medication used to manage hyperuricemia and prevent gout attacks. However, it has been associated with hepatotoxicity, including liver enzyme elevations and liver failure. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to instruct the client to report any signs or symptoms of liver dysfunction, such as right upper quadrant discomfort. This will allow for prompt evaluation and appropriate management if hepatotoxicity occurs.
While maintaining a healthy weight and dietary modifications may be beneficial for managing gout, specific instructions regarding protein intake should be individualized and provided by a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.
Using an electric heating pad when pain is at its worst may provide temporary symptomatic relief for gout attacks, but it is not specific to the use of febuxostat. The focus of discharge teaching should be on medication adherence, monitoring for adverse effects, and lifestyle modifications to prevent gout attacks.
Replacing dietary table salt with salt substitutes is not a specific instruction for a client taking febuxostat. While reducing sodium intake may be recommended as part of an overall healthy diet, it is not directly related to the use of febuxostat or management of gout attacks. Dietary modifications for gout management should be individualized and based on the client's specific needs and preferences.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect- This position is not ideal for managing a nosebleed because it does not promote drainage and may lead to blood flowing down the throat.
B) Incorrect- Leaning the head backward can cause blood to flow down the throat and may lead to choking or aspiration.
C) Correct- Placing the child in a sitting position and leaning forward helps prevent blood from flowing down the back of the throat, which can lead to choking or aspiration. Leaning forward allows the blood to drain out through the nostrils.
D) Incorrect- Placing the child in a supine position with raised legs is not recommended for managing a nosebleed, as it may lead to blood flowing down the throat.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
Nursing Interventions for Client Starting Clonazepam:
The following nursing interventions are appropriate for the client starting clonazepam 0.25 mg PO every 12 hours:
a. Screen for orthostatic hypotension:
Rationale:
- Clonazepam,like other benzodiazepines,can cause central nervous system (CNS) depression,which can lead to hypotension,particularly orthostatic hypotension.This occurs when blood pressure drops suddenly upon standing due to impaired autonomic nervous system regulation.
- Screening for orthostatic hypotension involves measuring the client's blood pressure and heart rate while lying down and then again after standing for 3 minutes.A significant drop in blood pressure (systolic decrease of 20 mmHg or diastolic decrease of 10 mmHg) or increase in heart rate (over 20 beats per minute) indicates orthostatic hypotension.
- Monitoring for orthostatic hypotension is crucial to prevent falls and other complications,especially in older adults or those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
b. Provide oral care at least twice a day:
Rationale:
- Clonazepam can cause dry mouth as a side effect,which can increase the risk of cavities,gum disease,and oral infections.
- Regular oral care helps to remove plaque and bacteria,promoting oral hygiene and preventing complications.Providing oral care at least twice a day,especially before bedtime and upon waking,is essential.
d. Assess mental status regularly:
Rationale:
- Clonazepam,while indicated for anxiety and insomnia,can paradoxically cause agitation,confusion,and even hallucinations in some individuals,particularly older adults or those with pre-existing psychiatric conditions.
- Regular assessment of mental status helps to identify any adverse behavioral or cognitive changes early on.This includes monitoring for anxiety,depression,suicidal ideation,confusion,disorientation,hallucinations,and changes in sleep patterns.
e. Assist the client to the bathroom:
Rationale:
- Clonazepam can cause drowsiness and dizziness,which can increase the risk of falls,especially in older adults or those with impaired mobility.
- Assisting the client to the bathroom and providing support during toileting activities helps to prevent falls and injuries.
Choices not included:
c. Monitor calcium levels:
- There is no specific indication for monitoring calcium levels with clonazepam use.
f. Have an opioid agonist at the bedside:
- Clonazepam is not indicated for pain management and does not interact significantly with opioid analgesics.Therefore,having an opioid agonist readily available is not a necessary intervention for clonazepam initiation.
Additional Considerations:
- Educate the client about the potential side effects of clonazepam,including drowsiness,dizziness,dry mouth,and cognitive changes.
- Advise the client to avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants while taking clonazepam,as this can increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression.
- Instruct the client to take clonazepam exactly as prescribed and not to stop taking it abruptly,as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
- Monitor the client's sleep patterns and adjust the medication schedule if necessary.
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