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

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is A) Take this medication on an empty stomach. Levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone replacement medication that should be taken on an empty stomach, preferably 30 minutes to 1 hour before breakfast, to ensure optimal absorption. Food can interfere with the absorption of Levothyroxine, reducing its effectiveness. Taking it with food, at bedtime, or with antacids can all decrease the absorption of the medication and lead to suboptimal treatment outcomes for the client. Educational Context: Understanding the administration instructions for medications is crucial in pharmacology to ensure their therapeutic effectiveness. In the case of Levothyroxine, proper administration can significantly impact a patient's thyroid hormone levels and overall health. Educating patients on the importance of following specific instructions for each medication is a key role of the nurse to promote patient safety and optimal treatment outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the potential adverse effects of medications is crucial for safe and effective patient care. In the case of starting therapy with Atenolol, a beta-blocker commonly used to treat hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions, it is essential for the nurse to educate the client on monitoring for bradycardia. The correct answer is C) Bradycardia because Atenolol, as a beta-blocker, works by slowing down the heart rate. Bradycardia, or a slower than normal heart rate, is a common adverse effect of beta-blockers like Atenolol. Monitoring for signs and symptoms of bradycardia, such as dizziness, fatigue, and fainting, is crucial to prevent complications. Option A) Tachycardia is incorrect because Atenolol actually works to decrease heart rate, making tachycardia less likely. Option B) Hypoglycemia is not a common adverse effect of Atenolol. Beta-blockers are more likely to mask the signs of hypoglycemia rather than cause it. Option D) Hypertension is also an incorrect option because Atenolol is used to treat hypertension, so monitoring for increased blood pressure would not be a primary concern when initiating therapy with this medication. In an educational context, understanding the mechanism of action of medications and their common adverse effects is essential for nurses to provide comprehensive patient education. By explaining why certain adverse effects are more likely with specific medications, nurses can empower patients to monitor for and report any concerning symptoms, leading to better outcomes and improved medication adherence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pharmacology, it is crucial to provide thorough instructions to clients regarding their medications. In the case of Prednisone, the correct instruction to include is to increase intake of vitamin D. This is because Prednisone, a corticosteroid, can lead to decreased calcium absorption and increased risk of bone loss, making it important to supplement with vitamin D to support bone health. Option B, taking the medication on an empty stomach, is incorrect because Prednisone is typically recommended to be taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Option C, avoiding grapefruit juice, is also incorrect as grapefruit juice interactions are more common with certain other medications, not necessarily with Prednisone. Option D, taking the medication every other day, is incorrect as Prednisone is usually prescribed in a specific daily dosage regimen to maintain therapeutic levels in the body. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind specific medication instructions helps students grasp the importance of individualized patient care. By linking medication effects to specific recommendations like increasing vitamin D intake with Prednisone, learners can appreciate the holistic approach to pharmacological treatment and its impact on patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Allopurinol can increase the risk of kidney stones as a side effect. To prevent this adverse effect, it is essential for the client to increase their fluid intake. Adequate hydration can help in preventing the formation of kidney stones by keeping urine dilute and flushing out substances that can lead to stone formation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction to include in the discharge teaching for a client prescribed Metronidazole is to avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication. Drinking alcohol with Metronidazole can result in a disulfiram-like reaction, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and flushing. Therefore, it is crucial for the client to abstain from alcohol consumption during the course of treatment with Metronidazole.