A nurse is collecting data from a client who has a sodium level of 128 mEq/L. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?

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.

Choice A rationale:

Taking hydrochlorothiazide on an empty stomach is not a requirement for this medication. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic used to treat conditions like hypertension and edema. It can be taken with or without food, and food may help reduce stomach upset for some individuals.

Choice B rationale:

Muscle weakness is an adverse effect of hydrochlorothiazide. Therefore, it is not an expected outcome. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic, and one of its common side effects is potassium loss through increased urine output. This can lead to muscle weakness and cramping. The nurse should educate the client about the signs and symptoms of low potassium and the importance of including potassium-rich foods in their diet.

Choice C rationale:

Increasing daily intake of foods high in potassium is essential information to include in the teaching for a client taking hydrochlorothiazide. Thiazide diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide can cause potassium depletion, which may result in adverse effects like muscle weakness, cramping, and cardiac dysrhythmias. Therefore, advising the client to consume potassium-rich foods, such as bananas, oranges, and potatoes, can help counteract the potassium loss associated with the medication.

Choice D rationale:

Taking the medication at bedtime is not a specific requirement for hydrochlorothiazide. Thiazide diuretics can be taken at various times of the day, depending on the client's preferences and when they are most compliant with their medication regimen. The timing of administration should be consistent to maintain the medication's effectiveness.