A nurse is teaching a client who is to begin taking tamoxifen to treat breast cancer. The nurse should instruct the client to expect which of the following findings as an adverse effect of the medication?

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because drowsiness is not a common or serious adverse effect of alendronate. However, the client should avoid driving or operating machinery if they experience drowsiness.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect because tachycardia is not a common or serious adverse effect of alendronate. However, the client should monitor their pulse and blood pressure regularly and report any abnormal changes to the provider.

Choice C reason: This is correct because jaw pain can indicate a rare but serious condition called osteonecrosis of the jaw, which is associated with alendronate use. The client should report any jaw pain, swelling, or infection to the provider immediately and avoid dental procedures while taking alendronate.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect because dizziness is not a common or serious adverse effect of alendronate. However, the client should rise slowly from a lying or sitting position to prevent orthostatic hypotension and falls.

Choice E reason: This is correct because esophageal erosion can occur if alendronate is not taken correctly. The client should take alendronate with a full glass of water, at least 30 minutes before any food or drink, and remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking it. The client should report any difficulty swallowing, chest pain, or heartburn to the provider.

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because withholding all medications may cause hyperglycemia or ketoacidosis in the patient, especially if they are taking insulin or sulfonylureas. The nurse should consult with the prescriber to adjust the dose or timing of the medications according to the patient's blood glucose level and the duration of the procedure.

Choice B reason: This is correct because contacting the prescriber to clarify orders is the best action by the nurse, as the prescriber can provide specific instructions on how to manage the patient's oral antidiabetic drugs before and after the oral endoscopy. The nurse should also monitor the patient's blood glucose level closely and report any abnormal findings to the prescriber.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect because administering half the original dose may not be appropriate for the patient, as it may cause hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia depending on the type and dose of the medication and the patient's blood glucose level. The nurse should not make any changes to the medication regimen without the prescriber's approval.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect because giving the medication with a sip of water may violate the NPO status of the patient, which is necessary to prevent aspiration or interference with the oral endoscopy. The nurse should not administer any oral medications or fluids to the patient unless the prescriber allows it.