A client who experiences migraine headaches reports having fewer headaches since using the herbal remedy feverfew. Which information is most important for the nurse to include in a teaching plan for this client?

Choice A reason: Depression screening is not directly related to the effectiveness of orlistat, which is a medication that blocks the absorption of fat from the diet and helps to reduce weight. Depression screening may be important for the overall mental health of the client, but it is not an ongoing assessment for orlistat.

Choice B reason: Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight, and it is used to assess the risk of obesity-related health problems. BMI is an ongoing assessment for orlistat, because it can indicate the progress and outcome of the weight management program. The goal of orlistat therapy is to achieve and maintain a healthy BMI.

Choice C reason: Daily calorie count is not an ongoing assessment for orlistat, because it does not reflect the amount of fat absorbed by the body. Orlistat works by blocking the action of lipase, an enzyme that breaks down fat in the intestine. Therefore, even if the client consumes a high-calorie diet, orlistat can prevent some of the fat from being absorbed and reduce weight. However, daily calorie count may be useful for monitoring the overall nutritional intake and energy balance of the client.

Choice D reason: Serum protein levels are not an ongoing assessment for orlistat, because they are not affected by the medication. Orlistat only blocks the absorption of fat, not protein or carbohydrates. Serum protein levels may be important for evaluating the nutritional status and organ function of the client, but they are not an indicator of orlistat effectiveness.

Choice A reason: Increased anxiety and nervousness have been reported by some people taking feverfew, but this is not a common or serious side effect. It may be related to individual sensitivity or dosage.

Choice B reason: Feverfew may interact with aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, which are commonly used for pain relief. Feverfew and these drugs can both inhibit platelet aggregation and increase the risk of bleeding. This information is most important for the nurse to include in a teaching plan for this client, especially if they are taking any of these medications or have a history of bleeding disorders.

Choice C reason: Those with allergies to chamomile, ragweed, or yarrow should not take feverfew, because they may have a cross-reactivity and experience an allergic reaction to feverfew. This information is important for the nurse to include in a teaching plan for this client, but it is not as critical as choice B.

Choice D reason: Abdominal pain, gas, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur when taking feverfew, but these are usually mild and transient side effects that do not require medical attention. They may be reduced by taking feverfew with food or water.