The client diagnosed with Parkinson's disease has been taking carbidopa/levodopa for two years. The client states symptoms are worsening. The health care provider added the prescription donepezil to the client's daily routine. Which information should the nurse teach the client?
Take the medication on an empty stomach.
There are no side effects of this medication like there are for carbidopa/levodopa.
Discontinue the carbidopa/levodopa.
Rise slowly from a lying or sitting position.
The Correct Answer is D
Donepezil is a medication that can cause side effects such as dizziness and fainting ¹. Therefore, it is important for the client to rise slowly from a lying or sitting position to prevent falls.
Option A is incorrect because donepezil can be taken with or without food.
Option B is incorrect because donepezil does have side effects ¹.
Option C is incorrect because the health care provider added donepezil to the client's daily routine, not to replace carbidopa/levodopa.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Carbidopa/levodopa is a medication used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, including tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. If the medication is effective, the client should show improvement in their ability to move and perform daily activities. In this case, the client being able to walk upright without stumbling indicates that the medication is effective.
Option B is incorrect because eating 30% to 40% of meals within 1 hour is not related to the effectiveness of carbidopa/levodopa.
Option C is incorrect because displaying emotions when discussing the illness is not related to the effectiveness of carbidopa/levodopa.
Option D is incorrect because cogwheel motion when swinging the arms is a symptom of Parkinson's disease and would indicate that the medication is not effective.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The statement by the client that indicates an understanding of the medication therapy for Parkinson's disease is that a levodopa/carbidopa combination is used to improve motor function ⁵. Levodopa is converted into dopamine in the brain, helping to control movement ¹. Carbidopa prevents the breakdown of levodopa in the bloodstream so more levodopa can enter the brain ¹.
Option A is incorrect because medication therapy cannot slow the progression of Parkinson's disease.
Option B is incorrect because skipping a dose if the client needs to drive is not recommended.
Option C is incorrect because if dyskinesias occur, the client should not stop the medication immediately without consulting their physician.
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