A client with a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder is prescribed buspirone. The nurse should include which instruction in the client's teaching plan?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology, the correct answer to the question is B) This medication may take several weeks to take effect. This is the correct instruction to include in the client's teaching plan because buspirone is a medication commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, but it does not provide immediate relief. It typically takes a few weeks of consistent use for the full therapeutic effects to be experienced by the client. Option A) This medication may cause drowsiness; avoid driving is incorrect as buspirone is not known to cause significant drowsiness compared to other medications used to treat anxiety disorders. Option C) This medication can be taken on an as-needed basis is incorrect because buspirone is typically prescribed for regular, daily use to maintain consistent levels of the medication in the body for optimal effectiveness. Option D) This medication should be taken with food is incorrect as buspirone can be taken with or without food, as food does not significantly impact its absorption or effectiveness. Educationally, it is important for nurses and clients to understand the specific instructions for each medication to ensure optimal treatment outcomes and to prevent potential adverse effects. Understanding the expected onset of action of a medication like buspirone is crucial for managing client expectations and promoting adherence to the prescribed treatment regimen.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dry cough. Losartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker, can lead to a dry cough as a potential side effect. This occurs due to the drug's effect on the bradykinin pathway in the lungs. Monitoring for a dry cough is essential as it may indicate the need for further evaluation or medication adjustment to manage this adverse reaction.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: It is crucial for clients to understand that they should not discontinue escitalopram abruptly, even if they start feeling better. Stopping the medication suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a relapse of depression. It is essential to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by the healthcare provider to ensure the best outcomes and prevent potential complications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and the treatment of bipolar disorder, the correct answer to monitor for when a client is prescribed valproate is weight gain (Option A). Valproate is known to cause weight gain as a potential adverse effect due to its impact on metabolism and appetite regulation. This is an essential monitoring parameter because significant weight gain can lead to other health issues such as metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular complications. Regarding the incorrect options: - Hair loss (Option B) is not a common adverse effect associated with valproate use. - Hyperglycemia (Option C) is not typically caused by valproate; in fact, valproate is more likely to cause side effects such as insulin resistance and potential weight gain. - Hypoglycemia (Option D) is also not a common adverse effect of valproate; instead, valproate is known to potentially lead to hyperglycemia or insulin resistance. In an educational context, understanding the potential adverse effects of medications used in the treatment of psychiatric disorders like bipolar disorder is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers. Monitoring for these adverse effects helps ensure the safety and well-being of the patients. It also highlights the importance of individualized patient care and the need for close monitoring and assessment when administering psychotropic medications like valproate. Nurses should be knowledgeable about the common side effects of psychiatric medications to provide optimal care and improve patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the case of a client with schizophrenia prescribed aripiprazole, the nurse should monitor for potential side effects like weight gain. Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic medication known to have side effects that include metabolic changes leading to weight gain. This is due to its impact on the body's metabolism and appetite regulation. Dry mouth, headache, and increased appetite are not commonly associated with aripiprazole. Dry mouth is more commonly seen with medications that have anticholinergic effects. Headache can be a general side effect of many medications but is not specifically linked to aripiprazole. Increased appetite is not a typical side effect of aripiprazole, as it tends to have a neutral effect on appetite compared to other antipsychotics. In an educational context, understanding the side effect profile of medications is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to clients. By knowing the potential side effects of aripiprazole, nurses can monitor and manage these effects to promote the well-being of clients with schizophrenia.