A nurse caring for a client”who has hypertension and asks the nurse about a prescription for propranolol. The nurse should inform the client that this medication is contraindicated in clients who have a history of which of the following conditions?

A) The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for "fight or flight":
This is the correct answer. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the "fight or flight" response, which prepares the body to react to perceived threats or stressors by increasing heart rate, dilating pupils, redistributing blood flow, and releasing stress hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenaline.

B) The sympathetic nervous system helps us to rest and digest:
This statement is incorrect. The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for the "rest and digest" response, which promotes relaxation, digestion, and conservation of energy.

C) The sympathetic nervous system includes the cranial nerves:
This statement is incorrect. The sympathetic nervous system is primarily associated with the thoracolumbar region of the spinal cord and does not include the cranial nerves, which are primarily associated with the parasympathetic nervous system.

D) The sympathetic nervous system can lower blood pressure:
This statement is incorrect. The sympathetic nervous system typically increases blood pressure as part of the "fight or flight" response by increasing heart rate and constricting blood vessels to redirect blood flow to vital organs and muscles.

A) "Take the medication with a full glass of water":
This is the correct answer. Docusate is a stool softener used to treat constipation by promoting the incorporation of water into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Taking docusate with a full glass of water helps facilitate its action by ensuring hydration and aiding in the softening of stool.

B) "Take this medication on an empty stomach":
Taking docusate on an empty stomach is not necessary. It can be taken with or without food. The primary consideration is to take it with an adequate amount of water to facilitate its stool-softening effect.

C) "Do not take this medication before bedtime":
There is no specific contraindication to taking docusate before bedtime. The timing of administration can vary based on individual preferences and bowel habits. Some individuals may prefer to take it before bedtime to promote a bowel movement in the morning, while others may take it at different times of the day.

D) "Expect abdominal pain with this medication":
Abdominal pain is an uncommon side effect of docusate. While it may occur in some individuals, it is not a common or expected reaction to the medication. Most people tolerate docusate well, but gastrointestinal side effects such as mild abdominal cramping, nausea, or diarrhea may occur in some cases.