A female client who is admitted to the mental health unit for opiate dependency is receiving clonidine 0.1 mg by mouth (PO) for withdrawal symptoms.

The client begins to complain of feeling nervous and tells the nurse that her bones are itching.

Which finding should the nurse identify as a contraindication for administering the medication?

Choice A rationale:

The educational materials should contain a list with definitions of unfamiliar terms because older clients may not be familiar with medical terminology. Providing definitions can enhance their understanding of the new antihypertensive medications and promote medication adherence.

Choice B rationale:

Writing materials at a twelfth-grade reading level may not be appropriate for older clients. Many older individuals may have lower literacy levels, and using complex language can lead to confusion and hinder comprehension. Simple and clear language is more effective in educating this population.

Choice C rationale:

Using common words with few syllables is important for ensuring that older clients can easily understand the educational materials. Complex language and lengthy words can make it difficult for them to grasp important information about their antihypertensive medications.

Choice D rationale:

Using pictures to help illustrate complex ideas is essential when educating older clients. Visual aids can enhance comprehension and retention of information, especially for individuals who may have cognitive impairments or difficulty with written text.

Choice E rationale:

Printing materials using a 12-point type font is important for ensuring that the text is easy to read for older clients. Smaller fonts can be challenging for individuals with visual impairments, and readability is crucial for effective education.

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the client to bring all medications, supplements, and herbs currently being taken to the next clinic appointment (Choice A) is the best course of action. This allows the healthcare provider to review the client's entire medication regimen, identify any potential interactions or duplications, and make appropriate adjustments. It promotes medication safety and ensures that the client receives the most effective and safe treatment.

Choice B rationale:

Using a medication reminder system (Choice B) is a helpful suggestion but does not address the issue of potential duplications or interactions between medications. While a reminder system can improve adherence, it does not provide a comprehensive solution to the problem of multiple prescriptions for the same indication.

Choice C rationale:

Making certain a family member knows the name and use of all medications currently being taken (Choice C) is a useful practice for medication safety but may not be sufficient to address the issue of multiple prescriptions. Relying solely on a family member's knowledge may lead to misunderstandings or omissions in the medication regimen.

Choice D rationale:

Do not take any over-the-counter drugs while taking medications prescribed by a healthcare provider (Choice D) is a relevant piece of advice for medication safety. However, it does not directly address the issue of multiple prescriptions for the same indication. It is essential for the client to have a complete and accurate record of all medications, both prescribed and over-the-counter, to ensure safe and effective treatment.