A client with plaque psoriasis receives a new prescription for betamethasone valerate lotion. Which instruction should the nurse include in client teaching?

A) Determine what time the dose is taken: The timing of medication administration, especially for stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine-amphetamine, can significantly impact sleep quality. If the client is taking the medication too late in the day, its stimulant effects may interfere with their ability to fall asleep at night. Therefore, assessing the timing of medication administration is crucial to determine if it correlates with the reported difficulty sleeping.
B) Ask about the client's bedtime routine: While bedtime routine can influence sleep quality, it may not directly address the issue of difficulty sleeping related to medication use. However, understanding the client's overall sleep habits and bedtime routine can provide valuable information for developing sleep hygiene recommendations.
C) Inquire about perceived anxiety: Anxiety can contribute to sleep disturbances, but in this context, the primary concern is the potential impact of dextroamphetamine-amphetamine on sleep. While anxiety assessment is important in comprehensive care, it may not directly address the client's reported difficulty sleeping specifically related to medication use.
D) Determine daily caffeine intake: Caffeine intake can affect sleep quality, but it may not be as directly relevant to the reported difficulty sleeping in the context of medication use. However, it's still valuable information to assess as part of the overall evaluation of sleep habits and factors contributing to sleep disturbances.

A) Ask if the client’s morning voids are dark colored:
This intervention pertains to monitoring for potential adverse effects of carbidopa-levodopa, such as urine discoloration due to the breakdown of levodopa into dopamine. However, it does not directly address the client’s concern about the medication not working. While assessing for adverse effects is important, it may not provide immediate insight into the effectiveness of the medication in managing Parkinson’s disease symptoms.

B) Evaluate the client for signs of dyskinesia:
Dyskinesia refers to involuntary, abnormal movements that can occur as a side effect of long-term treatment with carbidopa-levodopa. While assessing for dyskinesia is essential during the management of Parkinson’s disease, it does not directly address the client’s immediate concern about the medication’s efficacy. It would be more appropriate to address the client’s primary concern first before assessing for potential adverse effects.

C) Determine if the client is taking the medication before meals:
The timing of medication administration, particularly with carbidopa-levodopa, can affect its absorption and effectiveness. Taking the medication with or without food can influence its onset of action and duration of effect. However, this intervention assumes that the client may not be taking the medication correctly, which may not necessarily be the case. It’s important to first clarify the client’s perception of the medication’s effectiveness before addressing administration instructions.

D) Explore what the client means by the drug “is not working.”
This option is correct. The nurse should prioritize exploring the client’s perception of the medication’s efficacy. Understanding the client’s specific concerns, such as which symptoms are not adequately controlled or how they define “not working,” can provide valuable information for further assessment and intervention. By actively listening to the client’s perspective, the nurse can collaboratively address any misconceptions, adjust the treatment plan if necessary, and provide education or reassurance accordingly.