When counseling a male patient about the possible adverse effects of antihypertensive drugs, the nurse will discuss which potential problem?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: One potential adverse effect of antihypertensive drugs, particularly beta-blockers and diuretics, is impotence. Antihypertensive medications can affect sexual function in males by causing erectile dysfunction or impotence due to their mechanism of action on blood vessels and circulation. It is important for the nurse to inform the patient about this possible side effect so that appropriate management strategies or alternative treatment options can be discussed. Impotence can have a significant impact on a patient's quality of life and adherence to medication, so open communication and education are essential in managing this issue.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Palpitations are a late manifestation of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood. Potassium plays a vital role in maintaining normal heart function. When potassium levels are low, it can lead to abnormal heart rhythms, including palpitations. Other symptoms of hypokalemia, such as muscle weakness, lethargy, and even hypotension, may be present before palpitations occur. Therefore, palpitations are considered a late manifestation of hypokalemia that signals significant potassium depletion and should be addressed promptly to prevent serious cardiac complications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, also known as statins, are a class of antilipemic drugs commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels. One side effect associated with statin use is myopathy, which manifests as muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. In severe cases, myopathy can progress to rhabdomyolysis, a condition characterized by muscle breakdown and release of muscle fiber contents into the blood, potentially leading to kidney damage. It is essential for healthcare providers, such as nurses, to monitor patients on statin therapy for signs and symptoms of myopathy to intervene promptly if necessary. Niacin, fibric acid derivatives, and bile acid sequestrants are not typically associated with myopathy as a common side effect.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Clopidogrel is a drug that has a therapeutic effect in preventing thromboembolic events. It is an antiplatelet agent that works by inhibiting platelet aggregation, thus reducing the risk of blood clot formation. Clopidogrel is commonly used in patients at risk for cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication that also helps prevent blood clots, but it works by a different mechanism than clopidogrel. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker used to treat hypertension and angina, while nitroglycerine is a vasodilator used in the treatment of angina.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Codeine sulfate is an opioid medication commonly used to relieve pain. However, one of the most common side effects associated with the use of opioids like codeine is constipation. Opioids slow down gastrointestinal motility, leading to constipation in many patients. It is important for healthcare providers to educate patients about this side effect and recommend measures to prevent or manage constipation, such as increasing fluid and fiber intake, exercise, and in some cases, the use of stool softeners or laxatives.