An older patient exhibits a shuffling gait, lack of facial expression, and tremors at rest. The nurse will expect the provider to order which medication for this patient?

To calculate the amount of solution needed for each dose, we need to use the formula:

Amount of solution (mL) = Dose (mg) / Concentration (mg/mL)

Plugging in the given values, we get:

Amount of solution (mL) = 50 mg / 20 mg/mL

Simplifying, we get:

Amount of solution (mL) = 2.5 mL

Therefore, the nurse must administer 2.5 mL of the solution for each dose.

A. "This medication may make my movements smoother."

This statement is correct. Carbidopa-levodopa is used to improve motor symptoms in parkinsonism, making movements smoother.

B. "My skin may turn yellow if I miss too many doses."

This statement is not accurate. Yellowing of the skin (jaundice) is not a known side effect of carbidopa-levodopa. This statement indicates a need for further clarification.

C. "I need to take vitamin B6 supplements with this medication."

This statement is incorrect. While vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) can reduce the effectiveness of levodopa, carbidopa is included in the formulation to prevent its peripheral conversion, allowing more levodopa to reach the brain. Vitamin B6 supplements are generally not recommended with carbidopa-levodopa.

D. "I should take this medicine on an empty stomach."

This statement is not accurate. Carbidopa-levodopa is typically taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Taking it on an empty stomach may increase the risk of nausea.

E. "I need to check my blood sugar regularly while taking this."

This statement is not directly related to carbidopa-levodopa. Monitoring blood sugar is essential for individuals with diabetes but is not a specific requirement related to this medication.