A client is newly prescribed calcium carbonate and asks how they should take this medication. What is the best response by the nurse?

A) "If you do not take it now, it will put you behind schedule.": While the nurse might be concerned about the medication schedule, this response dismisses the client's concern and doesn’t prioritize safety. The nurse should not pressure the client to take the medication before verifying that it is correct.
B) "Let me check the original order before you take it.": This is the best response because it demonstrates a commitment to patient safety. If the client is concerned about the medication, the nurse should take the time to verify the order directly from the original source to ensure the right medication is being given. This approach reassures the client and promotes trust.

C) "It wouldn't be listed here if it were not ordered for you!": This response can come across as dismissive and unprofessional. While it is important that the medication appears on the record, the nurse should still verify it to address the client's concern. Simply relying on the medication record without confirmation is not the best course of action.

D) "It's listed here on the medication sheet, so you should take it.": Similar to option C, this response dismisses the client’s concern and does not prioritize verifying the medication’s accuracy. It could lead to the client feeling their concerns were not taken seriously, which could negatively impact their trust in the care provided.

A) Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA): While a history of a CVA (stroke) is important to consider when prescribing medications, ondansetron is not contraindicated for clients with a history of CVA. The nurse would need to assess the client’s overall neurological status and risk factors but this condition is not an immediate concern for ondansetron use.

B) Depression: Ondansetron is not typically contraindicated in patients with depression. However, the nurse should be mindful of the potential for interactions with other medications the client may be taking for depression, but there is no direct contraindication between ondansetron and depression itself.

C) Glaucoma: This is the most concerning finding. Ondansetron can increase the risk of complications in clients with glaucoma, particularly narrow-angle glaucoma. Ondansetron has some serotonin receptor-blocking properties that can cause dilation of the pupil, which could increase intraocular pressure in clients with glaucoma. Therefore, this condition would require careful monitoring, and the nurse would need to consult with the healthcare provider before administering ondansetron to a client with glaucoma.

D) Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): While patients with CHF need to be monitored for fluid balance, ondansetron is not contraindicated in clients with CHF. The primary concern in these patients would be potential fluid retention or electrolyte imbalances, but this is generally not a direct concern for the administration of ondansetron itself.