A client with Parkinson's disease who is taking carbidopa/levodopa reports the urine appears to be darker in color. Which action should the nurse take?

Obtain a specimen for a urine culture.

Explain the color change is normal.

Measure the client's urinary output.

Encourage an increase in oral intake.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Obtain a specimen for a urine culture: A urine culture is necessary when infection is suspected, typically indicated by symptoms like burning, urgency, or foul odor. Darker urine alone in a client on carbidopa/levodopa is not an indication for infection testing.

B. Explain the color change is normal: Carbidopa/levodopa can cause harmless discoloration of bodily fluids, including darker urine, sweat, and saliva due to the metabolism and excretion of the medication. This is a well-known and non-threatening side effect that does not require intervention beyond client reassurance.

C. Measure the client's urinary output: Monitoring urinary output is important in cases of suspected dehydration or renal dysfunction, but simply darker urine without changes in volume or symptoms does not justify additional measurement in this scenario.

D. Encourage an increase in oral intake: While adequate hydration is always encouraged, the urine color change reported here is due to the medication itself, not dehydration. Therefore, increasing fluid intake will not reverse or prevent the discoloration.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Use relaxation techniques to reduce excessive anxiety: Incorporating non-pharmacological strategies such as relaxation exercises complements lorazepam therapy and can improve anxiety management. This statement reflects appropriate understanding and safe self-care practices.

B. Avoid alcohol and other sedatives while taking the medication: Lorazepam is a central nervous system depressant, and combining it with alcohol or other sedatives can lead to respiratory depression, increased sedation, and potentially life-threatening effects. This is an important and accurate precaution.

C. Move slowly from a sitting position to a standing position: Orthostatic hypotension and dizziness are common side effects of benzodiazepines like lorazepam. Changing positions slowly helps minimize the risk of falls, especially in older adults or those sensitive to the medication.

D. Stop taking the medication if intended effect is not immediate: Lorazepam has a relatively quick onset, but stopping it abruptly without consulting a healthcare provider is unsafe and may lead to withdrawal symptoms including increased anxiety, insomnia, tremors, and even seizures. Clients must understand that medication adjustments require medical guidance.

A. Take the medication an hour after antacids. B. Notify the healthcare provider (HCP) of lethargy. C. Monitor for any signs of sexual dysfunction. D. Decrease cigarette use to a pack per day.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Take the medication an hour after antacids: Antacids can interfere with the absorption of cimetidine, so spacing them apart is a correct approach. This statement indicates appropriate understanding of medication timing and does not require further instruction.

B. Notify the healthcare provider (HCP) of lethargy: Cimetidine can cause central nervous system effects like confusion or lethargy, particularly in older adults or those with renal impairment. Reporting such symptoms is appropriate and reflects safe medication awareness.

C. Monitor for any signs of sexual dysfunction: Cimetidine has been associated with gynecomastia, decreased libido, and impotence in some cases. The client should be aware of and monitor for these potential effects.

D. Decrease cigarette use to a pack per day: Smoking impairs ulcer healing and increases gastric acid secretion, which can counteract the effects of cimetidine. Reducing to a pack per day is still harmful; the client should be encouraged to stop smoking entirely, not just cut back.

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A client with Parkinson's disease who is taking carbidopa/levodopa reports the urine appears to be darker in color. Which action should the nurse take?

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