When educating a client who has a prescription for Levothyroxine, which instruction should the nurse include?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In educating a client prescribed Levothyroxine, instructing them to take the medication on an empty stomach (Option A) is crucial. Levothyroxine absorption is significantly reduced when taken with food, particularly high-fiber or calcium-rich foods, hence compromising its effectiveness in managing hypothyroidism. Taking it on an empty stomach ensures optimal absorption. Option B (Take this medication with food) is incorrect as it contradicts the absorption requirements of Levothyroxine. Instructing the client to take it with food would lead to decreased drug absorption and potential treatment failure. Option C (Take this medication at bedtime) is also inaccurate as Levothyroxine is best absorbed on an empty stomach in the morning, to avoid interference with sleep patterns and to maximize absorption. Option D (Take this medication with antacids) is incorrect because antacids containing calcium or aluminum can interfere with Levothyroxine absorption, reducing its efficacy. In an educational context, understanding the optimal administration of Levothyroxine is essential for clients with hypothyroidism to achieve therapeutic outcomes. By providing clear instructions on medication administration, nurses can help clients manage their condition effectively and prevent potential complications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the adverse effects of medications is crucial for safe and effective patient care. In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Bradycardia. Atenolol is a beta-blocker medication that works by slowing down the heart rate. Therefore, the client should monitor for signs of bradycardia, such as dizziness, fatigue, weakness, or fainting. Option A) Tachycardia is incorrect because Atenolol actually decreases heart rate, so an increase in heart rate would not be an expected adverse effect. Option B) Hypoglycemia is not a common adverse effect of Atenolol. Beta-blockers can mask the signs of hypoglycemia, leading to potentially dangerous consequences for clients with diabetes, but they do not directly cause hypoglycemia. Option D) Hypertension is also an incorrect option because Atenolol is actually used to treat hypertension by lowering blood pressure, so an increase in blood pressure would not be an expected adverse effect. Educationally, understanding the pharmacological actions of medications like Atenolol helps nurses provide appropriate patient education on monitoring for potential adverse effects, ensuring patient safety and optimal therapeutic outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In teaching a client with a new prescription for Prednisone, instructing them to increase their intake of vitamin is the correct choice (Option A). Prednisone is a corticosteroid that can deplete certain vitamins, such as vitamin D and calcium, in the body. By increasing vitamin intake, the client can help offset potential deficiencies caused by Prednisone therapy. Option B, taking the medication on an empty stomach, is incorrect as Prednisone is typically recommended to be taken with food to minimize stomach upset. Option C, avoiding grapefruit juice, is unrelated to Prednisone and is more commonly associated with certain medications metabolized by the liver through the cytochrome P450 system. Option D, taking the medication every other day, is also incorrect as Prednisone is usually prescribed for daily use to maintain therapeutic blood levels. Educationally, it is crucial for nurses to understand the rationale behind medication instructions to provide safe and effective patient care. Teaching patients about their medications empowers them to take an active role in their treatment, leading to better adherence and health outcomes. In the case of Prednisone, emphasizing the importance of vitamin supplementation helps prevent potential side effects and complications associated with long-term corticosteroid therapy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Allopurinol can cause kidney stones due to the formation of uric acid crystals, so it is crucial for the client to increase their fluid intake. Adequate hydration helps to prevent the formation of kidney stones by diluting the urine and promoting the excretion of uric acid. Therefore, advising the client to increase their fluid intake is essential in preventing this adverse effect while taking Allopurinol.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the case of a client starting Captopril, the nurse should instruct the client to take the medication on an empty stomach. This is because taking Captopril with food can decrease its absorption, leading to reduced effectiveness. By taking it on an empty stomach, the medication can be better absorbed, allowing for optimal therapeutic effects. Option A, advising to take the medication with food, is incorrect as mentioned earlier since it can reduce absorption. Option B, avoiding foods high in potassium, is not directly related to Captopril but is more relevant for clients taking potassium-sparing diuretics. Option D, increasing sodium-rich foods intake, is also inaccurate since Captopril is often prescribed to help manage hypertension, where reducing sodium intake is typically recommended. From an educational standpoint, understanding the importance of proper medication administration enhances patient outcomes. Nurses must provide accurate instructions to ensure the safe and effective use of medications, considering factors such as absorption, timing, and potential drug interactions. This rationale reinforces the critical role of nursing in medication education and patient care.