A client who is having gastrointestinal (GI) difficulties is undergoing diagnostic procedures.

The client asks the nurse about the difference between ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

Which information should the nurse offer?

Itraconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat a variety of fungal infections. Antacids, which are used to treat heartburn and acid reflux, can decrease the absorption of itraconazole in the body. Therefore, it is important to instruct the client to avoid taking itraconazole with antacids. If the client needs to take an antacid, it should be taken at least 2 hours before or after taking itraconazole.

Reporting any difficulty with breathing is important as it can be a sign of an allergic reaction to the medication. Monitoring for changes in stool color is important as it can be an indication of liver dysfunction, which is a potential side effect of itraconazole.

Avoiding the consumption of grapefruit juice is important as it can increase the level of itraconazole in the body, which can increase the risk of side effects.

In summary, the client should be instructed to avoid taking itraconazole with antacids and to take any antacid at least 2 hours before or after taking itraconazole. The client should also be instructed to report any difficulty with breathing and to monitor for changes in stool color. Additionally, the client should avoid consuming grapefruit juice while taking itraconazole.

A) Incorrect- A blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg is within a generally acceptable range for a person with diabetes and coronary artery disease. It may not directly indicate a complication related to the episodes of confusion. While blood pressure management is important for clients with diabetes and coronary artery disease, this particular blood pressure reading is not necessarily a significant finding in relation to the client's confusion.
B) Correct- Cervical spine stiffness or neck stiffness is a potential neurological symptom that can indicate a serious complication in a client with type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease. The stiffness of the neck may be a sign of meningeal irritation, which can result from various conditions including infections such as meningitis. The client's medical history includes both type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease, which are risk factors for cardiovascular events, including cerebrovascular accidents (strokes). Confusion can be a symptom of a stroke, and neck stiffness can be indicative of meningeal irritation secondary to a stroke or another neurological condition.
C) Incorrect- Dark yellow urine can be a sign of dehydration, which can be a concern for someone with diabetes. However, it is not directly related to episodes of confusion. Dehydration can cause various symptoms, but confusion is not typically associated with mild dehydration.
D) Incorrect- Excessive perspiration (diaphoresis) can occur for various reasons, including increased sympathetic nervous system activity, fever, anxiety, and physical activity. While it can be a symptom of certain complications, such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or heart attack, it alone may not directly relate to the episodes of confusion in this client.