When monitoring a patient who is taking hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL), the nurse notes that which drug is most likely to cause a severe interaction with the diuretic?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Digitalis (e.g., Digoxin) and hydrochlorothiazide can cause a severe interaction because hydrochlorothiazide can reduce potassium levels in the body. Low potassium levels (hypokalemia) can increase the risk of digitalis toxicity, leading to dangerous effects on the heart. Therefore, patients taking hydrochlorothiazide along with digitalis need close monitoring of their potassium levels and potential adjustments to their digitalis therapy. It is important to communicate this risk to the healthcare team to ensure patient safety.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors are a class of medications used to treat edema by decreasing the production of aqueous humor in the eye and reducing fluid in the body. One common side effect of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors is metabolic acidosis, which can lead to increased blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes. The medication may interfere with the body's ability to regulate blood glucose levels, leading to elevated blood glucose. Therefore, when monitoring a patient with diabetes who is receiving a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, the nurse should closely monitor for signs of elevated blood glucose levels to prevent potential complications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Before administering Digoxin, the nurse should count the apical pulse for 1 minute. Digoxin is a cardiac medication that primarily works by increasing the force of contractions of the heart muscle. It is important to assess the patient's heart rate to ensure it is within the recommended range before administering Digoxin. This is because Digoxin can cause serious complications such as heart arrhythmias if given when the heart rate is too low. Counting the apical pulse for a full minute provides a more accurate assessment of the heart rate compared to shorter durations.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The statement "I'll have my physician lower my dosage once I start to feel okay" indicates an understanding of the treatment regimen because it shows that the client recognizes the need to continue the medication as prescribed and not discontinue it abruptly. It highlights that the client intends to follow up with their physician for appropriate adjustments to the dosage as needed. This demonstrates a responsible approach to managing their alcohol withdrawal with diazepam (Valium).

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.