A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client with congestive heart failure. The client is prescribed an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. Which instruction is essential for the client to follow?

A) This choice is incorrect because clubbing refers to the enlargement of the fingertips and nails due to chronic hypoxia, which is not related to the client's reported symptoms.

B) This choice is correct. Peripheral edema refers to swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet, which is a common symptom of congestive heart failure. The client's symptoms of swollen ankles, legs, and abdomen indicate peripheral edema.

C) This choice is incorrect because pitting edema is a specific type of edema where pressure on the skin leaves an indentation or "pit." While the client's edema may indeed be pitting, the question does not provide enough information to confirm this.

D) This choice is incorrect because ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity and is not specific to the client's reported symptoms of swollen ankles and legs.

A) This choice is incorrect because serum sodium levels are not directly impacted by digoxin. However, electrolyte imbalances, including hypokalemia, can potentiate digoxin toxicity, so potassium levels should be monitored.

B) This choice is incorrect because while digoxin can impact liver function, it is not the primary parameter to be monitored. Liver function tests may be performed periodically to assess liver health during digoxin therapy.

C) This choice is correct. Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside that can impact renal function. Monitoring urine output is essential to assess kidney function and the client's response to the medication.

D) This choice is incorrect because blood glucose levels are not specifically impacted by digoxin. However, hypokalemia resulting from digoxin therapy can cause alterations in glucose metabolism, so blood glucose levels should be monitored in clients taking digoxin.