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

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Avoid drinking grapefruit juice. Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker commonly prescribed to manage hypertension, angina, and certain cardiac arrhythmias. Grapefruit juice inhibits the enzyme CYP3A4 in the liver, which can lead to increased levels of Verapamil in the bloodstream, causing potential toxicity or adverse effects. Option A) Take this medication at bedtime is incorrect as Verapamil is typically prescribed to be taken at specific times based on the condition being treated to maintain therapeutic levels throughout the day. Option B) Monitor for signs of hyperglycemia is irrelevant to Verapamil as it does not directly impact blood sugar levels. Option D) Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods is also incorrect as Verapamil does not typically affect potassium levels in the body. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding drug-food interactions and the significance of providing clear instructions to clients to ensure safe and effective medication therapy. Nurses must educate clients on potential interactions to prevent adverse outcomes and promote medication adherence.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology, the correct answer for the client with a new prescription for Amiodarone is option B: Avoid drinking grapefruit juice. This instruction is crucial because grapefruit juice can inhibit the metabolism of Amiodarone, leading to increased drug levels in the body and potentially causing harmful side effects or toxicity. Option A (Take this medication with meals) is incorrect because Amiodarone is typically recommended to be taken on an empty stomach to enhance its absorption. Taking it with meals may reduce its effectiveness. Option C (Take this medication at bedtime) is incorrect because Amiodarone is usually prescribed to be taken consistently at the same time(s) each day to maintain steady blood levels, regardless of the time of day. Option D (Increase your intake of sodium-rich foods) is incorrect because Amiodarone can already cause electrolyte imbalances, particularly affecting potassium levels, and increasing sodium intake could exacerbate these issues. In an educational context, understanding the specific instructions for medications like Amiodarone is essential for nurses to ensure safe and effective drug therapy for their patients. Providing accurate information about drug administration, interactions, and precautions helps prevent adverse reactions and promotes positive patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pharmacology, Digoxin is a medication commonly used to treat heart conditions like heart failure and atrial fibrillation. The correct answer, option A - Bradycardia, is a sign of potential Digoxin toxicity. Digoxin works by increasing the force of the heart's contractions, but an overdose can lead to excessive slowing of the heart rate (bradycardia), which can be dangerous. Option B - Hypertension, is incorrect because Digoxin toxicity is more commonly associated with bradycardia rather than hypertension. Option C - Hyperglycemia, and Option D - Hypocalcemia, are also incorrect as they are not typically associated with Digoxin toxicity. Educationally, understanding the signs and symptoms of Digoxin toxicity is crucial for nurses and healthcare professionals to ensure safe medication administration and patient care. Monitoring for bradycardia, along with other signs like nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, and confusion, is essential in preventing serious complications from Digoxin overdose.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Atenolol is a beta-blocker that can cause bradycardia, leading to a decreased heart rate. Monitoring heart rate regularly is essential to detect any significant decreases promptly and seek medical attention. While other choices may be relevant to the client's overall health, monitoring heart rate is the priority instruction due to the nature of Atenolol's effects.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets, the correct instruction for the client is to take one tablet every 5 minutes, up to three doses (Option B). This dosing regimen is crucial in the management of acute angina attacks as Nitroglycerin is a fast-acting vasodilator that helps dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow to the heart muscle. Option A is incorrect as taking a tablet every 15 minutes may delay the relief of pain in acute situations where prompt action is necessary. Option C is incorrect as taking the tablet at bedtime does not align with the immediate relief goal of Nitroglycerin. Option D is also incorrect as there is no requirement to take Nitroglycerin on an empty stomach. Educationally, understanding the appropriate dosing regimen for Nitroglycerin is essential for nurses to effectively manage and educate clients with angina. Teaching clients the correct administration technique can significantly impact the successful management of their condition and improve outcomes.