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

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Loperamide can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so clients should avoid activities that require alertness until they know how the medication affects them. Taking the medication with a full glass of water can help with absorption. Increasing high-fiber foods is not directly related to Loperamide, and black, tarry stools are not expected side effects of this medication.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the mechanism of action of medications is crucial for safe and effective patient care. In this scenario, the correct answer is option A: "To lower blood pressure by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to vasoconstrictor angiotensin II." ACE inhibitors work by blocking the enzyme ACE, which is responsible for converting angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor, so inhibiting its production leads to vasodilation, decreased peripheral resistance, and ultimately lower blood pressure. Option B is incorrect because it describes the mechanism of action of loop diuretics, not ACE inhibitors. Loop diuretics inhibit sodium reabsorption in the nephron, leading to increased urine output and decreased blood volume, thus lowering blood pressure. Option C is incorrect as it describes the mechanism of beta-blockers, not ACE inhibitors. Beta-blockers work by blocking beta receptors in the heart and lungs, leading to decreased heart rate and blood pressure. Option D is incorrect as it describes the mechanism of action of sulfonylureas, not ACE inhibitors. Sulfonylureas stimulate insulin release from the pancreas to lower blood glucose levels in diabetes management. In an educational context, it is important for healthcare providers to accurately explain the mechanisms of action of medications to patients to promote understanding and adherence to treatment regimens. Understanding how ACE inhibitors work helps patients appreciate the rationale behind their prescribed therapy and empowers them to actively participate in their healthcare decisions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: ACE inhibitors are commonly used in the treatment of hypertension, heart failure, and diabetic nephropathy due to their ability to reduce blood pressure, improve heart function, and protect the kidneys. However, they are not indicated for hypotension as they can further lower blood pressure, worsening the condition.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Alprazolam (Xanax) is a medication commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders and panic attacks. It belongs to the class of medications known as benzodiazepines, which work by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain to produce a calming effect. Phenytoin is an antiepileptic drug, not typically used for anxiety or panic attacks. Lithium is primarily used to treat bipolar disorder, not anxiety. Spironolactone is a diuretic primarily used to treat conditions like high blood pressure and heart failure, not anxiety or panic attacks.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pharmacology, Lithium is classified as a mood stabilizer (Option B). This is the correct answer because Lithium is commonly used in the treatment of bipolar disorder to stabilize mood swings and prevent manic episodes. It is not classified as an antidiabetic (Option A), antiarrhythmic or anticonvulsant (Option C), or vascular headache suppressant (Option D). Antidiabetics like biguanides are used to treat diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels, which is unrelated to Lithium's mechanism of action. Antiarrhythmics and anticonvulsants are used to treat heart rhythm disorders and seizures, respectively, not mood disorders like Lithium. Vascular headache suppressants are used to manage headaches related to blood vessel dilation, which is not the purpose of Lithium. Understanding the pharmacological class of medications is essential for healthcare professionals to prescribe and monitor their patients effectively. Knowing that Lithium is a mood stabilizer helps clinicians make informed decisions about its use in managing bipolar disorder. This knowledge also aids in preventing medication errors and adverse drug reactions, highlighting the importance of accurate pharmacological classifications.