The nurse is monitoring a client taking Lasix (furosemide). Which of the following findings would prompt the nurse to notify the health care provider?

Choice A reason: This is correct. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are the most common side effects of metformin, especially when the drug is started or the dose is increased. These side effects occur because metformin can interfere with the absorption of glucose and other nutrients in the intestines, causing osmotic diarrhea. The nurse should advise the client to take metformin with food, start with a low dose and gradually increase it, and drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. The nurse should also monitor the client for signs of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious complication of metformin that causes severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, muscle cramps, and difficulty breathing.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Palpitations are not a common side effect of metformin. Palpitations are the sensation of a rapid, irregular, or pounding heartbeat, which can be caused by various factors, such as stress, anxiety, caffeine, nicotine, or heart problems. Metformin does not affect the heart rate or rhythm directly, but it can lower the blood sugar levels, which can trigger the release of adrenaline, a hormone that can cause palpitations. The nurse should check the client's blood sugar levels and advise the client to eat regular meals and snacks, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and report any chest pain or shortness of breath.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Headaches are not a common side effect of metformin. Headaches are the pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck, which can be caused by various factors, such as stress, dehydration, or sinus infection. Metformin does not cause headaches directly, but it can lower the blood sugar levels, which can cause headaches as a symptom of hypoglycemia. The nurse should check the client's blood sugar levels and advise the client to eat regular meals and snacks, drink plenty of water, and take painkillers as needed.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect. Heartburn is not a common side effect of metformin. Heartburn is the burning sensation in the chest or throat, which is caused by the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. Metformin does not cause heartburn directly, but it can worsen it if the client already has gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition where the lower esophageal sphincter is weak or relaxed and allows the acid to flow back. The nurse should advise the client to take metformin with food, avoid spicy or fatty foods, elevate the head of the bed, and take antacids as needed.

Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Lisinopril is an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that lowers blood pressure and reduces the workload of the heart. It does not have a diuretic effect, meaning it does not increase urination.
Choice B reason: This is correct. Lisinopril can cause orthostatic hypotension, which is a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing positions. This can lead to dizziness, fainting, or falls. To prevent this, the nurse should instruct the client to rise slowly from sitting or lying positions and to avoid sudden movements.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Lisinopril can be taken with or without food. Taking it on an empty stomach does not improve its effectiveness or reduce its side effects.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect. Lisinopril does not cause weight gain due to fluid retention. In fact, it can help reduce edema, which is swelling caused by excess fluid in the body.