What does the pharmacotherapy for Parkinson's disease intended to do?

A. The patient's understanding of the medication:

While it's important for the patient to understand their medication, assessing their understanding is typically done through patient education and counseling. This assessment is vital for promoting adherence and safe medication practices but is not the primary consideration immediately before administration.

B. The patient's ability to swallow:

This is the correct answer. Assessing the patient's ability to swallow is crucial before administering oral medications to ensure that the patient can safely and effectively take the prescribed medication without the risk of aspiration or choking.

C. The patient's allergies:

Assessing the patient's allergies is an essential step in medication administration, but it is generally part of the overall medication safety process. It may not be the primary assessment immediately before administering an oral medication, but it is a crucial consideration.

D. The eyesight:

The patient's eyesight is not typically a primary assessment before administering oral medications. While visual impairments can affect a patient's ability to read medication labels or instructions, it is not the immediate concern when assessing readiness for oral medication administration.

A. Avoiding hot, spicy foods

Spicy foods can increase the production of stomach acid and may irritate the esophagus, worsening GERD symptoms. Avoiding hot and spicy foods is a dietary measure to minimize the risk of symptom exacerbation.

B. Avoiding tobacco products

Tobacco use is a known risk factor for GERD. Smoking can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Advising the patient to quit or avoid tobacco products can contribute to symptom management.

C. Drinking a glass of red wine with dinner

While red wine may have some potential benefits, alcohol, in general, can relax the LES, leading to increased reflux. Therefore, drinking red wine with dinner may not be recommended for someone experiencing GERD symptoms.

D. Eating a snack before bedtime

Eating close to bedtime can increase the likelihood of GERD symptoms, as lying down may allow stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. The nurse may advise against eating a snack right before bedtime to minimize nighttime reflux.

E. Using a small pillow for sleeping

Elevating the head and upper body during sleep can help prevent stomach acid from flowing into the esophagus. Using a small pillow for sleeping is a measure to reduce nighttime reflux and alleviate GERD symptoms.