A newly diagnosed epilepsy patient is prescribed diazepam. The nurse understands that this medication causes which of the following adverse effects?

Choice A reason: Bradycardia is not typically associated with gastrointestinal perforation. While changes in heart rate can occur with severe pain or shock, it is not a primary indicator of perforation in peptic ulcer disease.

Choice B reason: This is the correct answer. Sudden abdominal pain, especially if severe and accompanied by signs of peritonitis, is a key indicator of gastrointestinal perforation. This condition requires immediate medical intervention to prevent serious complications.

Choice C reason: Hyperactive bowel sounds are more commonly associated with other gastrointestinal conditions, such as obstruction or gastroenteritis. In the case of perforation, bowel sounds may actually be diminished or absent.

Choice D reason: Increased blood pressure might occur as a response to severe pain or stress but is not a specific indicator of gastrointestinal perforation. The focus should be on abdominal symptoms and signs of acute abdomen.

Choice A reason:

Expecting some swelling in the hands and feet is incorrect because furosemide is a diuretic that helps reduce fluid accumulation in the body. Instead of causing swelling, it helps alleviate it. Swelling would not be an expected outcome of taking furosemide and suggesting this would contradict the intended purpose of the medication.

Choice B reason:

Taking the medication at bedtime is generally not recommended for diuretics like furosemide because it can lead to nocturia, which is frequent urination during the night, disrupting sleep. Furosemide is usually taken in the morning to avoid this inconvenience and ensure the diuretic effect occurs during waking hours.

Choice C reason:

Eating foods that contain plenty of potassium is crucial for clients taking furosemide because it can cause significant loss of potassium, a vital electrolyte, through increased urination. Low potassium levels can lead to hypokalemia, which can cause muscle weakness, cramping, and heart rhythm disturbances. Therefore, consuming potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, and spinach is essential to maintain electrolyte balance.

Choice D reason:

Taking aspirin if headaches develop is not a standard instruction for clients taking furosemide. While managing headaches may be important, it is not directly related to the use of furosemide. Additionally, without medical advice, taking aspirin could pose risks, especially in patients who may have other underlying conditions or take other medications that interact with aspirin.