A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for clopidogrel.
Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

 

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should instruct the client to consume foods rich in potassium because furosemide, a loop diuretic, can lead to potassium depletion. By consuming potassium-rich foods, the client can help maintain proper electrolyte balance. Common potassium-rich foods include bananas, oranges, potatoes, and leafy greens. It is crucial to prevent hypokalemia, as it can result in adverse effects such as cardiac dysrhythmias and muscle weakness.

Choice B rationale:

Taking furosemide at bedtime is not necessary, and it is not a standard instruction. Furosemide is usually taken in the morning to avoid nocturia, as it increases urine output. This option does not address the primary concern of managing pulmonary edema and the potential electrolyte imbalances associated with furosemide use.

Choice C rationale:

Taking aspirin for headaches is not relevant to the client's condition of pulmonary edema or the use of furosemide. This choice does not provide valuable guidance to the client and may lead to unnecessary medication use.

Choice D rationale:

Expecting swelling in the hands and feet is not an appropriate instruction for a client with pulmonary edema. The goal of furosemide therapy is to reduce edema and fluid retention, not to expect or tolerate swelling. This option does not contribute to the client's well-being and recovery.

Choice A rationale:

"I can plan to eat rice instead of baked potatoes.”. This choice demonstrates an understanding of dietary sources of potassium. Baked potatoes are a good source of potassium, and the client's willingness to substitute rice for baked potatoes indicates that they are aware of alternative potassium-rich foods. Potassium is essential for various bodily functions, including maintaining proper heart and muscle function. The client's willingness to make a dietary adjustment is a positive sign.

Choice B rationale:

"Adding pecans will be a change I can readily make.”. While pecans are a good source of potassium, this choice does not directly address the client's ability to substitute a potassium-rich food for one they might need to avoid. It focuses on a new addition to their diet rather than a substitution, making it a less relevant response to the teaching.

Choice C rationale:

"I will eat cantaloupe for my morning snack.”. Cantaloupe is indeed a good source of potassium, but this choice does not indicate an understanding of how to substitute potassium-rich foods in their diet. It only mentions adding cantaloupe as a snack without addressing the potential need for replacing other foods high in potassium. Therefore, it does not fully demonstrate comprehension of the teaching.

Choice D rationale:

"I will miss eating yogurt every day for breakfast.”. This choice expresses a sentiment but does not show an understanding of the teaching regarding dietary sources of potassium. It merely states that the client will miss yogurt without providing any insight into their ability to make appropriate dietary choices to maintain adequate potassium intake.