A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is to start therapy with insulin lispro and insulin glargine.
Which of the following should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the client to chew the medication is not recommended for enteric-coated tablets as it could result in stomach upset or damage to the protective coating.

Choice B rationale:

Placing the medication on the client’s tongue allows for easier swallowing without compromising the integrity of the enteric coating.

Choice C rationale:

Dissolving the medication in juice is not recommended as it could damage the enteric coating and result in stomach upset.

Choice D rationale:

Placing the medication between the client’s cheek and gum is not typically recommended for enteric-coated tablets as it could result in discomfort or damage to the protective coating.

Choice A rationale:

“You must rinse your mouth out after each dose.” This is incorrect. Rinsing the mouth after each dose is usually recommended for inhaled corticosteroids, not oral prednisone.

Choice B rationale:

“You should take this medication on an empty stomach.” This is incorrect. Prednisone should be taken with food to prevent stomach upset.

Choice C rationale:

“You should take a calcium supplement while taking this medication.” This is correct because long-term use of prednisone can lead to bone loss (osteoporosis) Taking a calcium supplement can help protect bone health.

Choice D rationale:

“You can expect some weight loss with this medication.” This is incorrect. Weight gain, not weight loss, is a common side effect of long-term prednisone use.