A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client with bacterial conjunctivitis of the right eye, and a prescription for an antibiotic ophthalmic ointment. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

A) Neutropenia:
Neutropenia, a low level of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell), is not a typical adverse effect associated with atenolol. Atenolol primarily affects cardiovascular function rather than hematologic parameters like neutrophil count.

B) Anemia:
Anemia, a decrease in red blood cells or hemoglobin levels, is not commonly associated with atenolol use. Beta-blockers do not typically affect red blood cell production or hemoglobin levels.

C) Hypokalemia:
Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can occur with some medications, but it is not a well-documented adverse effect of atenolol specifically. Atenolol may affect potassium levels indirectly through its effects on the cardiovascular system, but it is not a primary adverse effect.

D) Bradycardia:
Atenolol is a beta-blocker medication that primarily works by slowing the heart rate and reducing the force of heart contractions. Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is a known adverse effect of beta-blockers like atenolol. It occurs due to the medication's mechanism of action in blocking beta-adrenergic receptors, which can lead to decreased heart rate.

A) "It’s a good idea to help make sure your husband can sleep comfortably":
While the partner's intention may be to ensure the client's comfort, PCA pumps are designed for the client to self-administer medication according to their own pain level. Allowing the partner to administer doses without the client's input may lead to overmedication or misuse of the PCA pump.

B) "Next time you think he needs more medication, call me and I’ll push the button":
This response encourages the partner to involve the nurse in determining when additional medication is needed, which is appropriate. However, the ideal approach with a PCA pump is for the client to self-administer doses based on their own pain assessment and to communicate directly with the nurse if assistance is needed.

C) "Why do you think your husband needs more medication when he is asleep?":
This response may come across as confrontational and could imply mistrust in the partner's actions. It's important to address the situation without causing discomfort or defensiveness.

D) "Your husband should decide when more medication is needed":
This is the correct response because PCA pumps are specifically designed for the client to control their pain management. The client is encouraged to use the PCA pump to administer medication when they feel they need it, based on their own pain assessment. The partner's role should be to support and assist the client as needed, rather than making decisions about medication administration.