A nurse is reinforcing teaching about foot care with a client who has type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Veracity refers to the principle of truthfulness and honesty in communication. By truthfully communicating about the adverse effects of the prescribed medications, the nurse is demonstrating veracity. This ethical principle emphasizes the importance of providing accurate information to the client to promote informed decision-making and autonomy.

Justice refers to fairness and equitable treatment, ensuring that individuals receive what they are due and that resources are distributed appropriately. While justice is an important ethical concept in healthcare, it is not directly applicable to the nurse's communication about adverse effects.

Autonomy refers to respecting the right of individuals to make their own decisions and choices regarding their healthcare. While truthfully communicating about adverse effects supports autonomy, autonomy itself is not the specific ethical concept being exhibited in this scenario. Beneficence refers to the ethical principle of acting in the best interest of the client and promoting their well-being. While providing accurate information about adverse effects can be seen as a form of beneficence, it does not directly address the nurse's truthful communication in this specific scenario.

Orthostatic hypotension, which is a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, can be a side effect of enalapril and may lead to syncope. Instructing the client to rise slowly from a sitting to a standing position helps minimize the risk of a sudden drop in blood pressure and decreases the chances of syncope occurring.

Decreasing fluid intake is not likely to be the cause of syncope related to enalapril. It is important for clients to maintain adequate hydration, especially if they are experiencing side effects such as orthostatic hypotension.

While a low pulse rate may indicate bradycardia, it is not the primary concern in this situation. Orthostatic hypotension leading to syncope is the main issue, and the client should be instructed to rise slowly to prevent it.

While enalapril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that can increase potassium levels in the blood, it is not directly related to syncope. Dietary changes should be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider based on individual needs and blood test results.