A healthcare provider is providing discharge instructions to a client who is prescribed Enalapril. Which of the following adverse effects should the healthcare provider instruct the client to monitor?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Dry cough. Enalapril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor commonly used to treat hypertension and heart failure. One of the most common adverse effects associated with ACE inhibitors like Enalapril is a persistent dry cough. This occurs due to the accumulation of bradykinin, a substance affected by ACE inhibitors, in the lungs leading to irritation and coughing. Weight gain (option B) is not typically associated with Enalapril use. ACE inhibitors can even lead to weight loss due to their effects on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Diarrhea (option C) and nausea (option D) are less common side effects of Enalapril and not typically the primary adverse effects to monitor for in a patient taking this medication. Educationally, understanding the common adverse effects of specific drug classes like ACE inhibitors is crucial for healthcare providers to effectively educate patients on what to expect and monitor for during treatment. This knowledge ensures patient safety and adherence to the prescribed regimen, ultimately improving health outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Warfarin due to its antiplatelet effects. The combination of Warfarin, an anticoagulant, and NSAIDs can potentiate the risk of bleeding complications. Clients on Warfarin should avoid NSAIDs and opt for alternative pain relief options to minimize the risk of adverse effects.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Avoid drinking grapefruit juice. Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker commonly prescribed to manage hypertension, angina, and certain cardiac arrhythmias. Grapefruit juice inhibits the enzyme CYP3A4 in the liver, which can lead to increased levels of Verapamil in the bloodstream, causing potential toxicity or adverse effects. Option A) Take this medication at bedtime is incorrect as Verapamil is typically prescribed to be taken at specific times based on the condition being treated to maintain therapeutic levels throughout the day. Option B) Monitor for signs of hyperglycemia is irrelevant to Verapamil as it does not directly impact blood sugar levels. Option D) Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods is also incorrect as Verapamil does not typically affect potassium levels in the body. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding drug-food interactions and the significance of providing clear instructions to clients to ensure safe and effective medication therapy. Nurses must educate clients on potential interactions to prevent adverse outcomes and promote medication adherence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the potential side effects and monitoring parameters of specific medications is crucial for safe and effective patient care. In this case, the correct answer is A) Serum potassium when a client is prescribed Losartan, which is an angiotensin II receptor blocker commonly used to treat hypertension. Losartan, like other medications in its class, can cause potassium retention as a side effect. Monitoring serum potassium levels is essential to prevent hyperkalemia, which can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias. The incorrect options (B) Serum sodium, (C) Serum calcium, and (D) Serum magnesium are not directly affected by Losartan. Understanding the specific laboratory values to monitor for each medication helps nurses and healthcare providers ensure patient safety and detect and manage potential adverse effects promptly. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of medication-specific monitoring parameters in pharmacology practice. It reinforces the need for nurses to have a solid understanding of pharmacokinetics and potential side effects of medications to provide safe and effective patient care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology, the correct answer for the client with a new prescription for Amiodarone is option B: Avoid drinking grapefruit juice. This instruction is crucial because grapefruit juice can inhibit the metabolism of Amiodarone, leading to increased drug levels in the body and potentially causing harmful side effects or toxicity. Option A (Take this medication with meals) is incorrect because Amiodarone is typically recommended to be taken on an empty stomach to enhance its absorption. Taking it with meals may reduce its effectiveness. Option C (Take this medication at bedtime) is incorrect because Amiodarone is usually prescribed to be taken consistently at the same time(s) each day to maintain steady blood levels, regardless of the time of day. Option D (Increase your intake of sodium-rich foods) is incorrect because Amiodarone can already cause electrolyte imbalances, particularly affecting potassium levels, and increasing sodium intake could exacerbate these issues. In an educational context, understanding the specific instructions for medications like Amiodarone is essential for nurses to ensure safe and effective drug therapy for their patients. Providing accurate information about drug administration, interactions, and precautions helps prevent adverse reactions and promotes positive patient outcomes.