A client is prescribed niacin for the treatment of high cholesterol. Which of the following side effects should the nurse include in the client education?

Choice A reason: Wearing gloves when handling hot objects protects against burns but is irrelevant to Raynaud’s disease, which involves cold-induced vasospasm causing digital ischemia. Preventing cold exposure is key to avoiding vasospastic episodes, making this teaching point inappropriate, as it does not address the condition’s pathophysiology or triggers.

Choice B reason: Insulated socks during cold weather prevent vasospasm in Raynaud’s disease by maintaining warmth in the extremities, reducing the risk of ischemia and pain. Cold exposure triggers vasoconstriction, exacerbating symptoms, so protecting feet is critical, making this a key teaching point for managing this condition effectively.

Choice C reason: Smoking cessation is essential for Raynaud’s disease, as nicotine causes vasoconstriction, worsening digital ischemia and vasospasm. A support group aids in quitting, reducing symptom severity and cardiovascular risk, especially given the patient’s hypertension. This is a critical teaching point to prevent disease progression and complications.

Choice D reason: Caffeinated beverages cause vasoconstriction, worsening Raynaud’s symptoms by reducing blood flow to digits. They do not promote vasodilation and may exacerbate hypertension. Avoiding caffeine is recommended, making this teaching point incorrect, as it could increase vasospastic episodes and is contraindicated for this patient.

Choice E reason: Wearing gloves during cold weather prevents vasospasm in Raynaud’s disease by maintaining hand warmth, reducing ischemia and pain. Cold exposure triggers vasoconstriction, so protecting hands is essential for symptom management, making this a critical teaching point to minimize episodes and improve quality of life.

Choice A reason: 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, like brisk walking, is recommended for hypertension management, as it lowers blood pressure by improving vascular function and reducing cardiac workload. This aligns with guidelines for Mr. Carter, making it the correct physical activity recommendation.

Choice B reason: Avoiding exercise is incorrect, as moderate activity benefits hypertension by lowering blood pressure and improving cardiovascular health. Inactivity worsens hypertension, making this an inappropriate recommendation for Mr. Carter, who needs exercise to manage his condition effectively.

Choice C reason: 10 minutes of walking once a week is insufficient for hypertension management, which requires 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly to reduce blood pressure. This minimal activity does not provide cardiovascular benefits, making it an incorrect recommendation for Mr. Carter’s health needs.

Choice D reason: Exercising only under supervision is unnecessary for most hypertensive patients, as unsupervised moderate exercise is safe and effective. The standard recommendation is 150 minutes weekly, making this incorrect, as it overly restricts Mr. Carter’s ability to engage in beneficial physical activity.