A patient who has hypertension has been prescribed a clonidine patch. Which discharge instruction should the nurse provide?
Remove the patch if a headache develops.
Monitor weight on a daily basis.
Place the patch on the anterior chest.
Remove the patch as directed and inspect the skin.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Remove the patch if a headache develops: While headaches can be a side effect of clonidine, removing the patch is not the recommended immediate action without further assessment. The patient should be advised to consult with their healthcare provider if they experience significant side effects.
B. Monitor weight on a daily basis: While weight monitoring is important for some medications, it is not a specific recommendation for clonidine. Patients should be informed to monitor for signs of fluid retention or significant weight changes, but daily weight monitoring is not typically required.
C. Place the patch on the anterior chest: The clonidine patch should be placed on a hairless area of skin, typically on the upper arm or chest, but the anterior chest is not specific enough. Patients should be instructed to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for proper placement.
D. Remove the patch as directed and inspect the skin: This is the best discharge instruction. Patients should be informed to remove the patch according to the prescribed schedule and to inspect the skin for any irritation or allergic reactions. Regular skin checks are important to prevent any adverse reactions from prolonged patch use.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Monitor serum sodium levels: While serum sodium levels can provide some information about fluid balance, they are not the most direct indicator of the effectiveness of furosemide
in reducing peripheral edema.
B. Auscultate breath sounds: This is important for monitoring potential fluid overload or pulmonary complications, but it does not directly assess the reduction of peripheral edema, which is the primary concern with furosemide administration.
C. Perform daily weights: This method is the best way to evaluate the client's response to furosemide. Daily weights can provide a clear indication of fluid status and changes in peripheral edema, as a decrease in weight typically reflects effective diuresis.
D. Take the blood pressure: While monitoring blood pressure is important, especially in clients receiving diuretics, it does not specifically measure the effectiveness of the medication in addressing peripheral edema.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Tinnitus: While tinnitus can be concerning, it is not a classic side effect of digoxin. It may indicate other issues such as hearing problems or medication interactions, but it does not typically warrant immediate communication with the healthcare provider in the context of digoxin use.
B) Constipation: Although constipation can occur in some patients taking digoxin, it is generally not considered a critical side effect that requires urgent attention. Patients are encouraged to manage this symptom through dietary changes or over-the-counter remedies unless it becomes severe.
C) Visual disturbances: Experiencing visual disturbances, such as seeing halos around lights or blurred vision, can be a sign of digoxin toxicity. Since these symptoms can indicate an elevated level of the drug in the bloodstream, it is crucial for the patient to contact their healthcare provider promptly to assess the situation and prevent further complications.
D) Vertigo: While vertigo can occur in various medical conditions and may be a side effect of other medications, it is not specifically linked to digoxin. If a patient experiences vertigo, they should monitor it but are not necessarily required to contact their healthcare provider immediately unless it is severe or persistent.
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