A client is prescribed Atorvastatin. Which of the following laboratory values should be monitored to assess for potential adverse effects?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Creatine kinase should be monitored in clients taking Atorvastatin as it can indicate muscle damage, a serious adverse effect of statins. Elevated creatine kinase levels can suggest myopathy or rhabdomyolysis, which are potential complications associated with statin therapy. Monitoring creatine kinase levels helps in early detection of muscle damage and guides appropriate management to prevent severe complications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In teaching a client with a new prescription for Prednisone, instructing them to increase their intake of vitamin is the correct choice (Option A). Prednisone is a corticosteroid that can deplete certain vitamins, such as vitamin D and calcium, in the body. By increasing vitamin intake, the client can help offset potential deficiencies caused by Prednisone therapy. Option B, taking the medication on an empty stomach, is incorrect as Prednisone is typically recommended to be taken with food to minimize stomach upset. Option C, avoiding grapefruit juice, is unrelated to Prednisone and is more commonly associated with certain medications metabolized by the liver through the cytochrome P450 system. Option D, taking the medication every other day, is also incorrect as Prednisone is usually prescribed for daily use to maintain therapeutic blood levels. Educationally, it is crucial for nurses to understand the rationale behind medication instructions to provide safe and effective patient care. Teaching patients about their medications empowers them to take an active role in their treatment, leading to better adherence and health outcomes. In the case of Prednisone, emphasizing the importance of vitamin supplementation helps prevent potential side effects and complications associated with long-term corticosteroid therapy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Allopurinol can cause kidney stones due to the formation of uric acid crystals, so it is crucial for the client to increase their fluid intake. Adequate hydration helps to prevent the formation of kidney stones by diluting the urine and promoting the excretion of uric acid. Therefore, advising the client to increase their fluid intake is essential in preventing this adverse effect while taking Allopurinol.

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 Lisinopril is to avoid salt substitutes. Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, can lead to hyperkalemia, hence the importance of avoiding salt substitutes that may contain potassium. Instructing the client to avoid salt substitutes helps prevent potential adverse effects of increased potassium levels.