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

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client starting clonidine therapy for hypertension is to avoid driving until their reaction to the medication is known. Clonidine can cause drowsiness, so it is important for the client to refrain from activities that require alertness until they are aware of how the medication affects them. This precaution ensures the client's safety and the safety of others while taking the medication.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Urinary retention is a common anticholinergic effect associated with amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant. Amitriptyline can cause relaxation of the bladder sphincter muscles, leading to urinary retention. Monitoring for this adverse effect is crucial to prevent complications and ensure prompt intervention if needed.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Alcohol. Clients should avoid alcohol while taking metronidazole due to the risk of a disulfiram-like reaction. This reaction can cause symptoms like flushing, headache, nausea, and vomiting when alcohol is consumed while on metronidazole. Dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and grapefruit juice do not have significant interactions with metronidazole.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Metoclopramide. Metoclopramide is a prokinetic agent that enhances gastric emptying and is commonly prescribed for diabetic patients with gastroparesis to alleviate symptoms like nausea. It works by increasing the contractions of the stomach and small intestines, thus helping to move food through the digestive system more efficiently. Option A) Lubiprostone is a medication used for chronic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, not for gastroparesis. Option C) Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative used to treat constipation by stimulating bowel movements, which is not indicated for treating gastroparesis. Option D) Loperamide is an antidiarrheal agent that slows down gut motility and is used to treat diarrhea, which is not appropriate for managing gastroparesis symptoms. In an educational context, it is important for pharmacology students to understand the mechanism of action of different medications and how they are specifically used in various clinical situations. Understanding the rationale behind selecting the correct medication for a given condition is crucial for safe and effective patient care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of starting Alfuzosin for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, it is crucial for the nurse to educate the client about the potential adverse effects of this medication. The correct answer is C) Hypotension. Alfuzosin is an alpha-1 adrenergic blocker, which works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, improving urine flow and reducing symptoms of BPH. However, a common side effect of alpha-1 blockers like Alfuzosin is orthostatic hypotension, where a sudden drop in blood pressure occurs when moving from sitting to standing, leading to symptoms like dizziness or lightheadedness. Option A) Bradycardia is not typically associated with Alfuzosin use, as it does not have a significant effect on heart rate. Option B) Edema is also not a common adverse effect of Alfuzosin. Option D) Tremor is not a typical side effect of this medication as well. Educationally, understanding the potential adverse effects of medications is essential for both clients and healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective treatment. Nurses play a key role in medication education, empowering clients to recognize and manage possible side effects, thereby promoting adherence and optimal therapeutic outcomes.