A client with Parkinson's disease is prescribed carbidopa-levodopa (Sinemet). What should the nurse include in the teaching about this medication?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Expect the medication to take several weeks to reach full effectiveness. This is because carbidopa-levodopa (Sinemet) is a medication used to treat Parkinson's disease by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. It takes time for the medication to build up in the system and reach its full therapeutic effect. Choice A is incorrect because it is recommended to take carbidopa-levodopa with a high-protein meal to help reduce potential gastrointestinal side effects. Choice C is incorrect as the medication does not typically cause urine discoloration. Choice D is incorrect as a rapid heartbeat is not a common side effect of carbidopa-levodopa. In summary, choice B is correct because it aligns with the pharmacokinetics of the medication, while the other choices are not consistent with the usual effects and recommendations for carbidopa-levodopa.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Check the surgical site for bleeding. This is the first action the nurse should take as a sudden drop in blood pressure postoperatively could indicate internal bleeding, a common complication after abdominal surgery. By assessing the surgical site for bleeding, the nurse can identify and address the source of the hypotension promptly. Administering IV fluids (choice A) may be necessary but should come after determining the cause. Placing the client in Trendelenburg position (choice C) is not recommended as it can worsen venous return and increase intracranial pressure. Notifying the healthcare provider (choice D) should be done after the nurse has assessed the situation and taken immediate action.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Blood glucose level. The healthcare professional should check the blood glucose level first because hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia can cause confusion. Hypoglycemia can lead to altered mental status quickly and should be ruled out immediately. Checking the serum sodium level (B), serum calcium level (C), or blood urea nitrogen (D) can be important in further assessment, but addressing the blood glucose level is the primary concern in this scenario to rule out any immediate life-threatening conditions related to glucose imbalance.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the statement indicates a need for further teaching. The client should avoid solid foods for a specific period, usually 24 hours, before a colonoscopy to ensure a clear view of the colon. This helps the healthcare provider to perform the procedure effectively and reduces the risk of complications. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because having clear liquids up to 2 hours before, taking a laxative the night before, and being sedated during the procedure are all standard preparations for a colonoscopy and do not indicate a need for further teaching.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Consume a low-sodium diet. Ascites in cirrhosis is often due to fluid retention caused by impaired liver function. A low-sodium diet helps to reduce fluid buildup in the body, alleviating ascites. Increasing protein intake (A) may worsen ascites by increasing fluid retention. Limiting fluid intake (B) can lead to dehydration, exacerbating the condition. Taking a daily multivitamin (D) may be beneficial for overall health but does not directly address ascites.