A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is taking hydrochlorothiazide. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
Take the medication on an empty stomach.
Muscle weakness is an expected adverse effect.
Increase daily intake of foods high in potassium.
Take the medication at bedtime.
The Correct Answer is C
Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic commonly used to treat hypertension and edema. One of the potential side effects of hydrochlorothiazide is hypokalemia (low potassium levels). To help counteract this effect, it is important for the client to increase their daily intake of foods high in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, spinach, avocados, and potatoes. This helps maintain adequate potassium levels in the body.
The other options mentioned are incorrect:
Take the medication on an empty stomach: Hydrochlorothiazide can be taken with or without food. It does not need to be taken on an empty stomach.
Muscle weakness is an expected adverse effect: Muscle weakness is not a common or expected adverse effect of hydrochlorothiazide. If the client experiences muscle weakness, they should notify their healthcare provider.
Take the medication at bedtime: Hydrochlorothiazide can be taken at any time of the day. There is no specific requirement to take it at bedtime. The dosing schedule should be determined based on the individual's needs and healthcare provider's instructions.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Docusate is a stool softener commonly used to relieve constipation. Opioid pain medications often cause constipation as a side effect by slowing down bowel movements. Docusate helps by increasing the amount of water absorbed by the stool, making it softer and easier to pass.
The other options mentioned are not the primary therapeutic effects of docusate: Relief from nausea: Docusate is not typically prescribed for relief from nausea. Antiemetic medications are used to alleviate nausea and vomiting.
Decreased drowsiness: Docusate does not directly affect drowsiness. Its main action is on the stool consistency, not on alertness or drowsiness.
Decreased cancer pain: Docusate is not prescribed for pain relief. Opioids are generally used to manage cancer pain in this scenario.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The manifestation of gastrointestinal perforation includes severe upper abdominal pain. This can be a significant symptom indicating a potential perforation in the gastrointestinal tract. It is important to note that gastrointestinal perforation is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and intervention.
Hyperactive bowel sounds: This finding is more commonly associated with conditions like bowel obstruction or gastroenteritis rather than gastrointestinal perforation.

Bradycardia: Bradycardia (slower than normal heart rate) is not a typical manifestation of gastrointestinal perforation. It may be associated with other conditions or factors.
Report of epigastric fullness: Epigastric fullness can be a symptom of various gastrointestinal conditions, including peptic ulcer disease itself. However, it is not a specific manifestation of gastrointestinal perforation.
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