A client who has had long standing hypertension has been prescribed a clonidine patch. Which discharge instruction should the nurse provide?

Choice A reason: This is the most concerning result for the nurse. Creatinine is a waste product of muscle metabolism that is filtered by the kidneys and excreted in the urine. A high creatinine level indicates impaired kidney function, which can be a complication of hypertension. The normal range of creatinine is 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL for men and 0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL for women. A creatinine level of 3.2 mg/dL is more than twice the upper limit of normal and suggests severe kidney damage.

Choice B reason: This is not a concerning result for the nurse. Potassium is an electrolyte that is essential for the function of nerves and muscles, especially the heart. The normal range of potassium is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. A potassium level of 3.4 mEq/L is slightly below the normal range, but not enough to cause serious problems. A low potassium level can be caused by diuretics, vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive sweating. The nurse should monitor the client's potassium level and symptoms, and advise the client to eat foods that are high in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, potatoes, and tomatoes.

Choice C reason: This is not a concerning result for the nurse. Hemoglobin is a protein in the red blood cells that carries oxygen to the tissues. The normal range of hemoglobin is 13.5 to 17.5 g/dL for men and 12.0 to 15.5 g/dL for women. A hemoglobin level of 12.8 g/dL is within the normal range for women and slightly below the normal range for men, but not enough to cause significant anemia. A low hemoglobin level can be caused by blood loss, iron deficiency, or bone marrow disorders. The nurse should assess the client's history, diet, and symptoms, and check for other signs of anemia, such as pallor, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

Choice D reason: This is not a concerning result for the nurse. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is a waste product of protein metabolism that is filtered by the kidneys and excreted in the urine. A high BUN level indicates impaired kidney function or dehydration. The normal range of BUN is 7 to 20 mg/dL. A BUN level of 20 mg/dL is at the upper limit of normal, but not enough to indicate serious kidney problems. The nurse should ensure that the client is well hydrated and monitor the client's urine output and specific gravity.

Choice A reason: You feel good because your medication is working properly is not the most appropriate statement by the nurse. This statement may imply that the client does not need to worry about their blood pressure or follow up with their doctor. The nurse should educate the client about the importance of regular monitoring and adherence to the prescribed treatment.

Choice B reason: Your blood pressure reflects how strong your heart muscle contracts is not the most appropriate statement by the nurse. This statement may confuse the client or give them a false sense of security. The nurse should explain that blood pressure is determined by the force and amount of blood pumped by the heart and the resistance of the blood vessels. The nurse should also inform the client about the normal and abnormal ranges of blood pressure and the risk factors for hypertension.

Choice C reason: Even if you are feeling good, damage can occur to your heart and kidneys is the most appropriate statement by the nurse. This statement conveys the seriousness of hypertension and its potential complications. The nurse should educate the client about the effects of high blood pressure on the vital organs and the need for preventive measures and lifestyle modifications.

Choice D reason: Have you told your doctor that you are feeling good is not the most appropriate statement by the nurse. This statement may suggest that the nurse is not interested in the client's condition or does not have the knowledge or authority to address their concerns. The nurse should communicate effectively with the client and the health care team and provide appropriate guidance and support.