A nurse is caring for a client who has developed agranulocytosis as a result of taking propylthiouracil to treat hyperthyroidism. The nurse should understand that this client is at increased risk for which of the following conditions?

Choice A reason: Reducing intake of potassium-rich foods is not necessary for clients taking hydrochlorothiazide, as this medication can cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) due to increased potassium excretion in the urine. Clients may need to increase their intake of potassium-rich foods or take potassium supplements to prevent hypokalemia.

Choice B reason: Avoiding grapefruit juice is not necessary for clients taking hydrochlorothiazide, as this medication does not interact with grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice can affect the metabolism of some other medications, such as statins, calcium channel blockers, and cyclosporine, by inhibiting the enzyme CYP3A4 in the liver.

Choice C reason: Taking this medication before bedtime is not advisable for clients taking hydrochlorothiazide, as this medication can cause increased urination and nocturia (nighttime urination). Clients should take this medication in the morning or at least 6 hours before bedtime to avoid disrupting their sleep.

Choice D reason: Monitoring for leg cramps is an important instruction for clients taking hydrochlorothiazide, as this medication can cause muscle cramps due to electrolyte imbalances, such as hypokalemia, hyponatremia (low sodium levels), or hypomagnesemia (low magnesium levels). Clients should report any signs of muscle cramps, weakness, or fatigue to their provider.

Choice A reason: Giving the medication in the morning daily is a correct instruction, as it helps to prevent asthma attacks throughout the day and night. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that blocks the inflammatory response and bronchoconstriction caused by leukotrienes. Montelukast has a long duration of action and can be given once a day, preferably in the evening or at bedtime. However, for children who have exercise-induced asthma, the medication can be given in the morning to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm.

Choice B reason: Administering the granules mixed with 20 oz of water is not a correct instruction, as it may reduce the absorption and effectiveness of the medication. Montelukast granules should be administered within 15 minutes of opening the packet and can be mixed with a small amount of soft food, such as applesauce, mashed carrots, or ice cream. The granules should not be mixed with liquids, such as water, juice, or milk, as they may dissolve and lose their potency.

Choice C reason: Giving the medication at the onset of wheezing is not a correct instruction, as it may not provide immediate relief of the symptoms and may delay the use of a rescue inhaler. Montelukast is not a bronchodilator and does not work quickly to open the airways. Montelukast is a preventive medication that should be taken regularly to reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. The child should use a short-acting beta-agonist, such as albuterol, for the quick relief of wheezing.

Choice D reason: Administering the medication 2 hr before exercise is not a correct instruction, as it may not prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm and may interfere with the daily dosing schedule. Montelukast should be taken once a day, preferably in the evening or at bedtime, to provide consistent protection against asthma triggers. However, for children who have exercise-induced asthma, the medication can be given in the morning to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm. The child should also use a short-acting beta-agonist before exercise, as needed.