A client has a new prescription for Captopril to treat hypertension. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Avoid salt substitutes. The rationale behind this is that Captopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, which can lead to an increase in potassium levels in the body. Salt substitutes often contain potassium chloride, so consuming them along with Captopril can result in hyperkalemia, which is an elevated level of potassium in the blood and can be harmful. Option A) Take the medication with food is incorrect because Captopril is typically taken on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. Option C) Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods is also incorrect because as mentioned earlier, Captopril can already elevate potassium levels, so increasing potassium-rich foods can further exacerbate this. Option D) Expect a dry cough to develop is a common side effect of ACE inhibitors like Captopril but is not a crucial instruction that the nurse needs to emphasize regarding the medication. In an educational context, it's essential for nurses to understand the specific instructions related to medications to ensure patient safety and efficacy of treatment. By knowing the potential interactions and side effects of medications like Captopril, nurses can provide accurate information to patients to promote adherence and prevent complications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pharmacology, it is crucial for nurses to provide accurate and detailed instructions to clients regarding their medications. In the case of Clonidine, a medication used to treat hypertension, the correct instruction the nurse should include is to take the medication at the same time each day (Option B). This instruction is important because Clonidine is a medication that needs to be taken consistently to maintain therapeutic levels in the body for optimal blood pressure control. Taking it at the same time each day helps to establish a routine and ensures the drug's effectiveness. Option A is incorrect because experiencing dry mouth is a common side effect of Clonidine, and it does not necessarily warrant discontinuation of the medication. Option C is wrong because doubling the dose of Clonidine can lead to serious side effects such as low blood pressure and dizziness. Option D is inaccurate as there is no specific interaction between Clonidine and orange juice that necessitates avoidance. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of medication adherence and timing in the treatment of hypertension. It emphasizes the role of nurses in educating clients about proper medication administration to achieve desired therapeutic outcomes and avoid potential harm. Understanding these principles is essential for nursing practice and patient safety.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In teaching a client with a prescription for Loperamide for diarrhea, the nurse should include the instruction to avoid activities that require alertness. Loperamide is an antidiarrheal medication that can cause drowsiness and impair alertness, so engaging in activities such as driving or operating machinery can be dangerous. Option A is incorrect because taking the medication with a full glass of water is a general instruction for many medications but not specifically for Loperamide. Option C is incorrect because abdominal pain and bloating are not expected side effects of Loperamide. Option D is incorrect because taking an additional dose after each loose stool can lead to overdose and is not the recommended dosing regimen for Loperamide. Educationally, it is important for the nurse to emphasize the specific precautions and side effects of Loperamide to ensure the safe and effective use of the medication by the client. Understanding the rationale behind each instruction helps the client adhere to the prescribed regimen and avoid any potential risks associated with the medication.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pharmacology, it is crucial for nurses to understand the specific monitoring parameters associated with different medications to ensure patient safety and optimal therapeutic outcomes. In the case of a client prescribed Ranitidine, the correct answer is option A) Complete blood count (CBC). Ranitidine is a medication that can affect blood cell production, particularly leading to decreased levels of certain blood cells. Therefore, monitoring the CBC is essential to detect any potential adverse effects such as anemia, leukopenia, or thrombocytopenia. Option B) Serum creatinine is not the primary laboratory parameter to monitor for a client taking Ranitidine, as this medication is not primarily associated with renal function impairment. Serum creatinine is generally monitored for medications that have known nephrotoxic effects. Option C) Serum potassium is also not directly related to Ranitidine use. While certain medications may impact potassium levels, Ranitidine is not typically known to cause significant potassium disturbances. Option D) Serum glucose is not the priority lab value to monitor for a client on Ranitidine. Although some medications can affect blood glucose levels, Ranitidine is not commonly associated with causing hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the specific monitoring parameters for different medications. It reinforces the significance of tailored patient assessment and monitoring based on the pharmacological properties of each drug. By grasping these principles, nurses can ensure safe medication administration and promptly identify any potential adverse effects, thereby promoting patient well-being.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding medication administration instructions is crucial for ensuring optimal therapeutic outcomes. For the prescription of Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole, the nurse should include the instruction to increase fluid intake. This is because Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole is a combination antibiotic that can increase the risk of crystalluria, which is the formation of crystals in the urine. By increasing fluid intake, the client can help prevent the formation of these crystals and reduce the risk of kidney damage. Option A, taking the medication with food, is not directly related to the administration of Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole. This medication can be taken with or without food, so it is not a priority instruction. Option C, expecting reddish-orange urine, is a common side effect of phenazopyridine, not Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole. It is important to differentiate between medication side effects to provide accurate information to the client. Option D, avoiding high-protein foods, is not necessary for Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole administration. There is no specific dietary restriction related to this medication that requires the client to avoid high-protein foods. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind medication administration instructions helps nurses provide safe and effective care to their clients. By linking the pharmacological effects of medications to specific instructions, nurses can promote better adherence and outcomes for their clients.