The nurse administers risedronate to a client with osteoporosis at 0700. The client asks for a glass of milk to drink with the medication. Which action should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Holding the calcitriol but administering the calcium carbonate as scheduled is not appropriate, as both drugs can increase the serum calcium level and worsen the condition of hypercalcemia. Calcitriol is a synthetic form of vitamin D that enhances the absorption of calcium from the GI tract and promotes bone mineralization. Calcium carbonate is a supplement that provides additional calcium to the body.

Choice B reason: Holding the calcium carbonate, but administering the calcitriol as scheduled is not appropriate, as calcitriol alone can also raise the serum calcium level and cause hypercalcemia. Calcitriol is a synthetic form of vitamin D that enhances the absorption of calcium from the GI tract and promotes bone mineralization.

Choice C reason: Holding both medications until contacting the healthcare provider is the appropriate action to take, as the client's total calcium level is above the normal range of 9 to 10.5 mg/dL or 2.25 to 2.62 mmol/L and indicates hypercalcemia. Hypercalcemia can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, confusion, lethargy, muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, and kidney stones. The healthcare provider can adjust the dose or frequency of the medications or prescribe other treatments to lower the serum calcium level.

Choice D reason: Administering both prescribed medications as scheduled is not appropriate, as both drugs can increase the serum calcium level and worsen the condition of hypercalcemia. Calcitriol is a synthetic form of vitamin D that enhances the absorption of calcium from the GI tract and promotes bone mineralization. Calcium carbonate is a supplement that provides additional calcium to the body.

Choice A reason: Risedronate is a bisphosphonate that is used to treat osteoporosis by inhibiting bone resorption. It should be taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water at least 30 minutes before any other food, beverage, or medication. This is because food, milk, and antacids can interfere with the absorption of risedronate and reduce its effectiveness.

Choice B reason: Milk contains calcium, which can bind to risedronate and prevent its absorption. Therefore, the client should not drink milk with or within 2 hours of taking risedronate.

Choice C reason: Withholding the medication until the client's breakfast tray is available is not appropriate, as it would delay the administration of risedronate and disrupt the dosing schedule. The client should take risedronate as soon as possible after waking up and before eating anything.

Choice D reason: Consulting with a pharmacist about scheduling the dose one hour after the client eats is not necessary, as risedronate should be taken at least 30 minutes before any food or beverage. Taking risedronate one hour after eating may not ensure adequate absorption of the drug.