A nurse is administering the first dose of ramipril to a client who has hypertension.
The client reports feeling dizzy and lightheaded.
Which of the following should the nurse administer?

Choice Arationale:

Using PCA does not necessarily increase the client’s risk of toxicity. PCA allows the client to self-administer preset doses of pain medication, which can lead to better pain control with less risk of overdose.

Choice B rationale:

Diarrhea is not a common adverse effect of morphine. Constipation, not diarrhea, is a common side effect due to slowed gastrointestinal motility.

Choice Crationale:

Checking the client’s pain level every 8 hours is not sufficient when using PCA. Pain levels should be assessed more frequently, ideally before and after each administration of the medication. This allows for timely adjustments to the medication regimen if needed.

Choice D rationale:

Instructing the client’s visitors not to operate the PCA pump is crucial. Only the patient should administer doses to prevent overdose.

Choice A rationale:

“You must rinse your mouth out after each dose.” This is incorrect. Rinsing the mouth after each dose is usually recommended for inhaled corticosteroids, not oral prednisone.

Choice B rationale:

“You should take this medication on an empty stomach.” This is incorrect. Prednisone should be taken with food to prevent stomach upset.

Choice C rationale:

“You should take a calcium supplement while taking this medication.” This is correct because long-term use of prednisone can lead to bone loss (osteoporosis) Taking a calcium supplement can help protect bone health.

Choice D rationale:

“You can expect some weight loss with this medication.” This is incorrect. Weight gain, not weight loss, is a common side effect of long-term prednisone use.