A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about orthostatic hypotension. Which of the following information should the nurse include?

A) Weight and caloric intake:
While weight and caloric intake are important aspects of overall health assessment, they are not directly related to the administration of beta-adrenergic blocking agents. These medications primarily affect cardiovascular function, so assessing pulse and blood pressure is more pertinent.

B) Pulse and blood pressure:
This is the correct answer. Before administering beta-adrenergic blocking agents, it is essential to assess the client's pulse rate and blood pressure. Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline, leading to a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure. Monitoring these vital signs helps determine the appropriateness of administering the medication and allows for adjustments based on the client's current cardiovascular status.

C) Serum sodium level:
Assessing serum sodium level is not typically necessary before administering beta-adrenergic blocking agents. While electrolyte imbalances can occur as a result of certain medications or health conditions, beta blockers do not directly affect serum sodium levels.

D) Serum albumin level:
Assessing serum albumin level is not specifically indicated before administering beta-adrenergic blocking agents. Serum albumin levels may be assessed in clients with certain conditions such as liver or kidney disease, but it is not a routine assessment before administering beta blockers.

A) Routinely exercise indoors:
Exercising indoors may be beneficial for individuals taking anticholinergic drugs to minimize the risk of heat-related complications. However, this option does not directly address the need to avoid extremes of temperature on exertion, which is crucial for preventing heat exhaustion and heat stroke. While indoor exercise can provide a controlled environment, it does not eliminate the risk entirely, especially if the indoor area is not adequately ventilated or air-conditioned.

B) Wear dark, warm clothing during the summer months:
Wearing dark, warm clothing during the summer months can exacerbate the risk of heat-related complications for individuals taking anticholinergic drugs. Dark clothing absorbs more heat from the sun, increasing body temperature, and warm clothing further contributes to heat retention. This option does not align with the goal of minimizing the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

C) Avoid extremes of temperature on exertion:
This is the correct answer. Avoiding extremes of temperature on exertion is essential for individuals taking anticholinergic drugs to reduce the risk of heat-related complications such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Exertion in hot environments can lead to excessive sweating and dehydration, further compromising thermoregulation. By avoiding extremes of temperature and moderating exertion, individuals can better regulate body temperature and minimize the risk of heat-related adverse effects.

D) Take frequent showers in the evenings and early mornings:
While taking frequent showers in the evenings and early mornings may help cool the body and reduce the risk of heat-related discomfort, it does not specifically address the need to avoid extremes of temperature on exertion. While personal hygiene practices are important, they should be supplemented with measures aimed at preventing heat-related complications, such as avoiding exertion in extreme temperatures. Therefore, this option does not fully meet the goal of minimizing the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke for individuals taking anticholinergic drugs.