The loop diuretic furosemide is prescribed for a client with a history of heart failure (HF). Which foods should the nurse encourage this client to eat?

1. Recommend use of an over-the-counter antipyretic: While treating fever with an antipyretic like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may provide symptomatic relief, the priority in this scenario is to assess for other adverse effects of the medication. Fever can be a sign of an allergic reaction or other adverse effects to the antibiotic. Therefore, it is important to first assess for other symptoms before recommending symptomatic treatment.

B) Determine if other adverse effects have developed: This is the correct answer. The onset of a low-grade fever after starting a new medication, such as amoxicillin, warrants further assessment for other adverse effects. The nurse should inquire about other symptoms the client may be experiencing, such as rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, or gastrointestinal disturbances, which could indicate an allergic reaction or other adverse effects.

C) Ask if the medication has been kept refrigerated: While it is important to ensure proper storage of medications, such as amoxicillin, which may require refrigeration, the onset of a low-grade fever is not typically related to medication storage. Therefore, this action would not address the client’s current symptoms and concerns.

D) Instruct the client to increase oral fluid intake: While maintaining adequate hydration is important for overall health and may help manage symptoms of illness, such as fever, the priority in this scenario is to assess for other adverse effects of the medication. Therefore, increasing oral fluid intake alone would not address the potential adverse effects of amoxicillin.

A) Obtaining transportation to the emergency department may be unnecessary at this time. The client's sy’ptoms of fatigue and dizziness are likely side effects of the new medication, baclofen, and not indicative of a medical emergency. It's es’ential to assess the severity of symptoms and provide appropriate guidance before considering emergency care.

B) Increasing intake of fluids and high-protein foods may be beneficial for overall health but is not directly related to addressing the side effects of baclofen. While adequate hydration and nutrition are essential, this recommendation may not specifically address the client's sy’ptoms of fatigue and dizziness.

C) Stopping the medication immediately without consulting a healthcare provider is not advisable. Abruptly discontinuing baclofen can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a potential worsening of muscle spasticity. It's cr’cial for the client to discuss any concerns or side effects with their healthcare provider before making any changes to their medication regimen.

D) Advising the client to avoid hazardous activities until symptoms subside is the most appropriate action. Baclofen, as a muscle relaxant, can cause dizziness and fatigue, which may impair the client's ab’lity to safely engage in activities such as driving or operating machinery. By avoiding hazardous activities, the client can reduce the risk of injury or accidents while experiencing these side effects.