The nurse is teaching a patient who has Parkinson's disease about the side effects of carbidopa-levodopa. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?
"I may experience urinary retention, dry mouth, and constipation."
"I may feel dizzy at first, but this side effect will go away with time."
"I should report nightmares and mental disturbances to my provider."
"I should take the drug with food to increase absorption."
The Correct Answer is D
A. "I may experience urinary retention, dry mouth, and constipation."
This statement is accurate. Urinary retention, dry mouth, and constipation are common side effects of carbidopa-levodopa. The patient should be aware of these potential side effects and report them to the healthcare provider if they become problematic.
B. "I may feel dizzy at first, but this side effect will go away with time."
This statement is accurate. Dizziness is a common initial side effect of carbidopa-levodopa, and it often improves with continued use. The patient should be encouraged to report persistent dizziness to the healthcare provider.
C. "I should report nightmares and mental disturbances to my provider."
This statement is accurate. Nightmares and mental disturbances can be side effects of carbidopa-levodopa. The patient should report these symptoms to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and potential adjustments to the medication.
D. "I should take the drug with food to increase absorption."
This statement indicates a need for further teaching. Carbidopa-levodopa is best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach. Taking it with food, especially high-protein meals, can reduce its absorption. The patient should be instructed to take the medication at least 30 minutes before meals or one to two hours after meals for optimal effectiveness.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Aspirin has the potential to cause gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in children.
While it is true that aspirin can cause GI bleeding, this is not the primary concern in this scenario. Reye's syndrome, a severe and potentially fatal condition, is the more significant worry when aspirin is given to children with viral infections.
B. Aspirin has the potential to cause hyperglycemia.
Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) is not a known effect of aspirin in children. Aspirin is not typically associated with glucose metabolism issues.
C. Aspirin has the potential to cause ringing in the ears (tinnitus) in children.
Tinnitus can occur with aspirin use, but it is not the primary concern in this situation. Reye's syndrome is a more serious and immediate risk associated with aspirin use in children with viral infections.
D. Aspirin has the potential to cause Reye's syndrome in children.
This is the correct and most significant concern. Reye's syndrome is a rare but severe condition associated with aspirin use in children during or after viral infections. It affects the liver and brain and can be life-threatening.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
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.
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