A client has a new prescription for Allopurinol. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Allopurinol can cause kidney stones due to the formation of uric acid crystals, so it is crucial for the client to increase their fluid intake. Adequate hydration helps to prevent the formation of kidney stones by diluting the urine and promoting the excretion of uric acid. Therefore, advising the client to increase their fluid intake is essential in preventing this adverse effect while taking Allopurinol.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed Lisinopril is to avoid salt substitutes. Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, can lead to hyperkalemia, hence the importance of avoiding salt substitutes that may contain potassium. Instructing the client to avoid salt substitutes helps prevent potential adverse effects of increased potassium levels.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed Metronidazole is to avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication. Consuming alcohol with Metronidazole can lead to a disulfiram-like reaction, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and flushing. It is crucial to advise clients to abstain from alcohol during the course of treatment to prevent adverse reactions and ensure the effectiveness of the medication.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client on Labetalol is to avoid sudden discontinuation of the medication. Labetalol is a beta-blocker that, if abruptly stopped, can lead to rebound hypertension and other cardiac issues. It is essential for patients to taper off this medication under medical supervision to prevent adverse effects.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and specifically the medication Lovastatin, it is crucial for the nurse to provide accurate instructions to the client. The correct answer, which is option C - Take this medication at bedtime, is based on the pharmacokinetics of Lovastatin. Lovastatin is a statin drug that inhibits cholesterol synthesis in the liver, and its peak effectiveness occurs during nighttime when the body naturally produces cholesterol. Therefore, taking Lovastatin at bedtime maximizes its therapeutic effects. Option A - Take this medication on an empty stomach, is incorrect because Lovastatin can be taken with or without food. It does not need to be specifically taken on an empty stomach for optimal effectiveness. Option B - Take this medication in the morning, is incorrect because, as mentioned earlier, Lovastatin's peak effectiveness aligns with nighttime cholesterol production, making bedtime a more suitable time for administration. Option D - Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods, is unrelated to Lovastatin therapy. Lovastatin does not require an increase in potassium-rich foods for its efficacy or safety. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind the timing of medication administration is essential for safe and effective pharmacological management. Nurses must have a solid foundation in pharmacokinetics to provide accurate and patient-specific instructions regarding medication administration timings. This knowledge ensures optimal drug effects and patient outcomes.