A nurse is administering the first dose of ramipril to a client who has hypertension.
The client reports feeling dizzy and lightheaded.
Which of the following should the nurse administer?

Choice Arationale:

The statement about taking the medication with food is incorrect. Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets should not be taken with food. They work much faster when absorbed through the lining of the mouth.

Choice B rationale:

The statement that the medication can slow the heart rate is incorrect. Nitroglycerin does not slow the heart rate. In fact, it can cause a reflex tachycardia, where the heart rate increases.

Choice C rationale:

The statement that the effects of the medication should be felt within 5 minutes is correct. This indicates an understanding of the instructions.

Choice Drationale:

Taking the medication every 10 minutes until the pain goes away is incorrect. Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets usually give relief in 1 to 5 minutes. However, if the pain is not relieved, a second tablet can be taken 5 minutes after the first tablet. If the pain continues for another 5 minutes, a third tablet may be used. Taking the medication every 10 minutes could lead to an overdose.

Choice A rationale:

While it’s important for the client to maintain a balanced diet, consuming a lot of protein with each meal does not specifically benefit a person taking levodopa/carbidopa for Parkinson’s disease.

Choice B rationale:

Levodopa/carbidopa can cause side effects such as uncontrolled muscle movements in the face, arms, legs, or trunk. Therefore, monitoring for an increase in unusual movements is a sign of understanding the potential side effects of the medication.

Choice C rationale:

Levodopa/carbidopa helps manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease but does not prevent the disease from progressing.

Choice D rationale:

While levodopa/carbidopa can help reduce symptoms such as stiffness and tremors, it does not typically result in a rapid improvement in condition.