A client who is taking hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL, HCTZ) has been started on triamterene (Dyrenium) as well. The client asks the nurse why both medications are required. The nurse formulates a response, based on the understanding that:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The combination of triamterene and hydrochlorothiazide is used because triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which helps retain potassium, while hydrochlorothiazide is a potassium-losing diuretic, which promotes potassium excretion. This combination helps balance potassium levels in the body, preventing imbalances that can occur when using potassium-losing diuretics alone.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Megestrol acetate can increase the risk of thromboembolic events. Clients with a history of thrombophlebitis should not receive this medication due to the increased risk of thromboembolic events. Therefore, the nurse should contact the registered nurse if thrombophlebitis is documented in the client's history to ensure appropriate medication management.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and the administration of desmopressin acetate (DDAVP), the correct answer is B) Drowsiness as an adverse effect. Desmopressin acetate is a synthetic analog of vasopressin, used to treat conditions like diabetes insipidus. Drowsiness is an adverse effect because desmopressin can affect the central nervous system, leading to sedation. Option A) Insomnia is incorrect because desmopressin is not known to cause insomnia; in fact, it can have the opposite effect due to its impact on the regulation of sleep-wake cycles. Option C) Weight loss is incorrect as desmopressin is not typically associated with weight loss. In fact, fluid retention is a more common effect of this medication. Option D) Increased urination is also incorrect because desmopressin works to decrease urine production, making it an expected therapeutic effect rather than an adverse one. Educationally, understanding the adverse effects of medications is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers to ensure patient safety and well-being. It is essential to recognize and differentiate between expected therapeutic effects and potential adverse reactions to provide appropriate care and interventions for patients receiving pharmacological treatments.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Runny nose. Desmopressin acetate is a synthetic analogue of the antidiuretic hormone vasopressin. When administered intranasally, it can lead to side effects such as nasal congestion, runny nose, or irritation in the nasal passages. This is due to the direct contact of the medication with the nasal mucosa. Option A) Headache is a common side effect of desmopressin, but it typically occurs less frequently than nasal symptoms. Option B) Vulval pain is not a known side effect of intranasal desmopressin. Option D) Flushed skin is also not a typical side effect associated with this medication. In an educational context, it is important for healthcare providers to be knowledgeable about the side effects of medications they prescribe to ensure safe and effective patient care. Understanding the potential adverse effects of desmopressin acetate, such as nasal symptoms, allows healthcare providers to educate patients on what to expect and how to manage these effects.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because cholestyramine should not only be taken with water. Flavored products or fruit juices can improve the taste. Choices A, B, and D are all correct statements. It is important for the client to continue taking vitamin supplements, understand that cholestyramine helps lower cholesterol, and maintain a high-fiber diet while taking this medication to enhance its effectiveness.