A client is teaching a client who has a new prescription for hydrochlorothiazide for management of hypertension. Which of the following Instructions should the nurse include?
"Reduce intake of potassium-rich foods."
"Take this medication before bedtime."
"Avoid grape juice.'
"Monitor for leg cramps."
The Correct Answer is D
A) "Reduce intake of potassium-rich foods":
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic medication that can cause potassium loss through increased urinary excretion. Therefore, instructing the client to reduce intake of potassium-rich foods could further decrease potassium levels, leading to hypokalemia. Instead, clients taking hydrochlorothiazide should be encouraged to consume potassium-rich foods to help maintain normal potassium levels, unless otherwise instructed by their healthcare provider.
B) "Take this medication before bedtime":
While hydrochlorothiazide can be taken once daily, it is typically recommended to take it in the morning rather than before bedtime. Taking the medication earlier in the day can help minimize the need to wake up during the night to urinate, as it is a diuretic that increases urine production. Therefore, instructing the client to take hydrochlorothiazide before bedtime is not the optimal recommendation.
C) "Avoid grape juice":
There is no significant interaction between hydrochlorothiazide and grape juice. In general, grapefruit juice is known to interact with certain medications by inhibiting cytochrome P450 enzymes in the liver, affecting drug metabolism. However, grape juice is not known to interact with hydrochlorothiazide, so advising the client to avoid grape juice is not necessary.
D) "Monitor for leg cramps":
This is the correct instruction. Leg cramps can be a potential side effect of hydrochlorothiazide therapy due to electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypokalemia. By monitoring for leg cramps, the client can promptly report any symptoms to their healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. This instruction promotes client safety and awareness of potential adverse effects associated with the medication."
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Migraines:
Pseudoephedrine is not contraindicated for migraines. In fact, it is sometimes used in combination with other medications to alleviate symptoms of sinus congestion associated with migraines.
B) Diverticulitis:
Pseudoephedrine is not contraindicated for diverticulitis. However, it may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as abdominal discomfort or constipation, which could exacerbate symptoms in individuals with diverticulitis. Therefore, caution should be exercised when using pseudoephedrine in these clients.
C) Hypertension:
This is the correct answer. Pseudoephedrine is a sympathomimetic drug that can cause vasoconstriction and increase blood pressure. Therefore, it is contraindicated in clients with hypertension or cardiovascular disease, as it may exacerbate these conditions and increase the risk of adverse cardiovascular events such as hypertensive crisis or stroke.
D) Eczema:
Pseudoephedrine is not contraindicated for eczema. However, it may cause dryness of the skin and exacerbate existing dermatological conditions. Clients with eczema should use pseudoephedrine cautiously and monitor for any worsening of their skin condition.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Take this medication with food:
Captopril is an ACE inhibitor, known to work best on an empty stomach. Food can reduce its absorption, impacting its effectiveness. Thus, while clients can take captopril with or without food, it's generally recommended to take it on an empty stomach for optimal results.
B) Monitor for a cough:
Captopril, an ACE inhibitor, commonly induces a persistent, dry cough due to the accumulation of bradykinin. This side effect can be bothersome and may necessitate discontinuation of the medication. Therefore, patients should be vigilant for the onset of a cough and promptly report it to their healthcare provider.
C) Avoid bananas:
Although captopril can occasionally lead to hyperkalemia, advising patients to avoid bananas specifically may not be necessary. While bananas are potassium-rich, restricting them alone might not significantly impact potassium levels. However, patients should be educated on monitoring potassium intake and informed of potential dietary modifications if hyperkalemia occurs.
D) Hold medication for heart rate less than 100/min:
Captopril is not known to directly affect heart rate. This instruction may be more applicable to medications like beta-blockers, which can lower heart rate as part of their mechanism of action. Therefore, holding captopril for heart rates below 100/min may not be clinically indicated.
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