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

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the case of a client starting Captopril, the nurse should instruct the client to take the medication on an empty stomach. This is because taking Captopril with food can decrease its absorption, leading to reduced effectiveness. By taking it on an empty stomach, the medication can be better absorbed, allowing for optimal therapeutic effects. Option A, advising to take the medication with food, is incorrect as mentioned earlier since it can reduce absorption. Option B, avoiding foods high in potassium, is not directly related to Captopril but is more relevant for clients taking potassium-sparing diuretics. Option D, increasing sodium-rich foods intake, is also inaccurate since Captopril is often prescribed to help manage hypertension, where reducing sodium intake is typically recommended. From an educational standpoint, understanding the importance of proper medication administration enhances patient outcomes. Nurses must provide accurate instructions to ensure the safe and effective use of medications, considering factors such as absorption, timing, and potential drug interactions. This rationale reinforces the critical role of nursing in medication education and patient care.

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.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When a client is prescribed Lithium, monitoring serum lithium levels is crucial to ensure they remain within the therapeutic range and to assess for potential toxicity. Monitoring serum lithium levels helps prevent adverse effects associated with lithium toxicity, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and confusion.