A client with a history of smoking cigarettes for many years arrives at the clinic and expresses a desire to stop smoking. The client receives a prescription for bupropion to reduce nicotine cravings. Which information should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?

Choice A reason: Constipation is typically a symptom of hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism. If a client is taking too much levothyroxine, they are more likely to experience symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as diarrhea, rather than constipation.

Choice B reason: Intolerance to cold is a common symptom of hypothyroidism, indicating that the thyroid hormone levels are too low. If the client is taking too much levothyroxine, they would more likely experience heat intolerance due to increased metabolic activity.

Choice C reason: Restlessness is a symptom of hyperthyroidism, which can occur if a client is taking too much levothyroxine. Excess thyroid hormone can lead to increased nervous system activity, causing symptoms such as restlessness, anxiety, and tremors.

Choice D reason: Decreased appetite is more commonly associated with hypothyroidism. In contrast, hyperthyroidism, which can result from taking too much levothyroxine, often leads to an increased appetite.

Choice A reason: Zolpidem is primarily prescribed for the short-term treatment of insomnia. It works by enhancing the activity of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA-A receptor, which helps to induce sleep. While improved sleep can indirectly affect other conditions, such as incontinence, decreased episodes of incontinence are not a direct outcome of zolpidem administration.

Choice B reason: Improved ability to concentrate is not a primary outcome of zolpidem treatment. Zolpidem is a sedative-hypnotic medication used to treat insomnia by helping patients fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. While better sleep can improve overall cognitive function, the primary goal of zolpidem is to improve sleep quality, not directly enhance concentration.

Choice C reason: Exhibiting fewer emotional outbursts is not a direct effect of zolpidem. The medication is designed to treat insomnia and does not have a significant impact on emotional regulation. Emotional outbursts may be related to other underlying conditions that zolpidem does not address.

Choice D reason: The primary desired outcome of zolpidem administration is to help the patient sleep soundly through the night. Zolpidem is effective in reducing sleep latency and increasing the duration of sleep, which is particularly beneficial for older adults who may have difficulty maintaining sleep. Achieving a full night’s rest is the main indicator that zolpidem is working as intended.