A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for aluminum hydroxide to treat heartburn. The nurse should instruct the client to monitor for and report which of the following adverse reactions?

Choice A reason: Monitor the patient for addiction is not a necessary measure for the nurse to take when administering codeine cough syrup, which is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the brain¹. Codeine is a Schedule V medication, which means that it has a low potential for abuse and dependence compared to other opioids. The nurse should follow the prescriber's order and the label instructions and use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. The nurse should also assess the patient's pain level, respiratory status, and cough frequency and severity.

Choice B reason: Advise the patient that the medication helps to thin out their secretions is an incorrect statement for the nurse to make when administering codeine cough syrup, which is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the brain¹. Codeine does not affect the viscosity or production of the mucus in the airways, but rather reduces the urge to cough. The nurse should advise the patient to drink plenty of fluids, use a humidifier, or use saline nasal spray to help loosen and clear the secretions.

Choice C reason: Advise the patient to minimize intake of beets is not a relevant measure for the nurse to take when administering codeine cough syrup, which is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the brain¹. Beets are a vegetable that are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and nitrates, which can lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. Beets do not interact with codeine or affect its metabolism or clearance. The nurse should encourage the patient to eat a balanced and nutritious diet, unless they have any dietary restrictions or allergies.

Choice D reason: Advise the patient that constipation is an adverse effect of the medication is the correct and appropriate measure for the nurse to take when administering codeine cough syrup, which is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the brain¹. Codeine can also act on the opioid receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, which can reduce the peristalsis and cause constipation. The nurse should advise the patient to prevent or treat constipation by increasing their fluid and fiber intake, exercising regularly, and using laxatives or stool softeners as needed.

Choice A reason: Administering half of the scheduled dose of Colace is not the correct action for the nurse who is caring for a patient who had two loose stools during the night shift. Colace is the brand name of docusate, which is a stool softener that works by increasing the amount of water and fat in the stool, making it easier to pass. Colace is used to treat and prevent constipation, which is a condition of infrequent or hard bowel movements. Colace is not indicated for diarrhea, which is a condition of frequent and loose bowel movements. Administering half of the scheduled dose of Colace may not be enough to prevent constipation, and it may also worsen diarrhea by adding more water and fat to the stool.

Choice B reason: Administering the scheduled dose of Colace is not the correct action for the nurse who is caring for a patient who had two loose stools during the night shift. Colace is the brand name of docusate, which is a stool softener that works by increasing the amount of water and fat in the stool, making it easier to pass. Colace is used to treat and prevent constipation, which is a condition of infrequent or hard bowel movements. Colace is not indicated for diarrhea, which is a condition of frequent and loose bowel movements. Administering the scheduled dose of Colace may not be necessary to prevent constipation, and it may also worsen diarrhea by adding more water and fat to the stool.

Choice C reason: Inserting a rectal tube to prevent excoriation is not the correct action for the nurse who is caring for a patient who had two loose stools during the night shift. A rectal tube is a device that is inserted into the rectum and connected to a drainage bag, which collects the stool and prevents leakage and skin irritation. A rectal tube is used for patients who have fecal incontinence, which is the inability to control bowel movements. A rectal tube is not indicated for patients who have diarrhea, which is a condition of frequent and loose bowel movements. Inserting a rectal tube may not be effective to prevent excoriation, and it may also cause complications such as infection, bleeding, or perforation.

Choice D reason: Holding the scheduled dose of Colace and notifying the ordering physician is the correct action for the nurse who is caring for a patient who had two loose stools during the night shift. Colace is the brand name of docusate, which is a stool softener that works by increasing the amount of water and fat in the stool, making it easier to pass. Colace is used to treat and prevent constipation, which is a condition of infrequent or hard bowel movements. Colace is not indicated for diarrhea, which is a condition of frequent and loose bowel movements. Holding the scheduled dose of Colace may be appropriate to avoid further diarrhea, and notifying the ordering physician may be necessary to determine the cause and the treatment of diarrhea