A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for hydrochlorothiazide for management of hypertension. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
Reduce intake of potassium-rich foods.
Avoid grapefruit juice.
Take this medication before bedtime.
Monitor for leg cramps.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Reducing intake of potassium-rich foods is not necessary for clients taking hydrochlorothiazide, as this medication can cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) due to increased potassium excretion in the urine. Clients may need to increase their intake of potassium-rich foods or take potassium supplements to prevent hypokalemia.
Choice B reason: Avoiding grapefruit juice is not necessary for clients taking hydrochlorothiazide, as this medication does not interact with grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice can affect the metabolism of some other medications, such as statins, calcium channel blockers, and cyclosporine, by inhibiting the enzyme CYP3A4 in the liver.
Choice C reason: Taking this medication before bedtime is not advisable for clients taking hydrochlorothiazide, as this medication can cause increased urination and nocturia (nighttime urination). Clients should take this medication in the morning or at least 6 hours before bedtime to avoid disrupting their sleep.
Choice D reason: Monitoring for leg cramps is an important instruction for clients taking hydrochlorothiazide, as this medication can cause muscle cramps due to electrolyte imbalances, such as hypokalemia, hyponatremia (low sodium levels), or hypomagnesemia (low magnesium levels). Clients should report any signs of muscle cramps, weakness, or fatigue to their provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: The nurse collects a urine specimen is an appropriate action, as it can help detect the presence of hemoglobinuria, which is a sign of hemolysis. Hemoglobinuria is the excretion of hemoglobin in the urine, which can cause the urine to appear red or brown.
Choice B reason: The nurse sends a blood specimen to the laboratory is an appropriate action, as it can help confirm the diagnosis of a hemolytic reaction and identify the cause. The laboratory can perform tests such as blood typing, cross-matching, direct antiglobulin test (DAT), and serum bilirubin.
Choice C reason: The nurse initiates an infusion of 0.9% sodium chloride is an appropriate action, as it can help maintain the client's fluid and electrolyte balance and prevent hypovolemic shock. 0.9% sodium chloride is the preferred solution for blood transfusion reactions, as it is isotonic and compatible with blood products.
Choice D reason: The nurse starts the transfusion of another unit of blood product is an inappropriate action, as it can worsen the client's condition and increase the risk of complications. The nurse should not resume the transfusion until the cause of the reaction is determined and the provider orders a new unit of blood product. The nurse should also return the unused blood product and tubing to the blood bank for analysis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Bleeding gums is a possible adverse effect of taking gingko biloba, as it may increase the risk of bleeding by inhibiting platelet aggregation and interfering with clotting factors. Gingko biloba may also interact with other medications that affect bleeding, such as anticoagulants, antiplatelets, or NSAIDs. The nurse should advise the client to monitor for signs of bleeding, such as bruising, nosebleeds, or hematuria, and report them to the provider.

Choice B reason: Decreased alertness is not a likely adverse effect of taking gingko biloba, as it may have the opposite effect of enhancing cognitive function and memory. Gingko biloba may improve blood flow to the brain and protect against oxidative stress and neuronal damage. The nurse should inform the client that gingko biloba may take several weeks to show its benefits and that the evidence for its effectiveness is inconclusive.
Choice C reason: Breast enlargement is not a known adverse effect of taking gingko biloba, as it does not affect the hormonal levels or the breast tissue. Gingko biloba may have some estrogenic activity, but it is not significant enough to cause gynecomastia or breast tenderness. The nurse should assess the client for other possible causes of breast enlargement, such as medications, liver disease, or tumors.
Choice D reason: Bad breath is not a common adverse effect of taking gingko biloba, as it does not affect the oral hygiene or the digestive system. Gingko biloba may have a mild odor, but it is not unpleasant or persistent. The nurse should advise the client to maintain good oral care and to check for other possible causes of bad breath, such as infections, dental problems, or dietary factors.
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