A nurse is caring for a patient who has been prescribed nebulized Acetylcysteine for thick respiratory secretions. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to ensure effective secretion clearance after administration of the medication?

A. "Limit your fluid intake to meal times.": Fluid restriction is not a standard recommendation for patients taking Verapamil unless they have another condition like heart failure. Adequate hydration is important, especially to counter constipation, a known side effect of the drug.
B. "You can expect swelling of the ankles while taking this medication.": While peripheral edema is a known side effect of Verapamil, it is not something patients should expect or accept without reporting. Significant swelling may require dose adjustment or switching medications.
C. "This medication will not affect your heart rate": Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker that slows AV node conduction and reduces heart rate. It is used for conditions like hypertension, angina, and arrhythmias, and can cause bradycardia, especially in high doses.
D. "Increase your daily intake of dietary fiber.": Verapamil frequently causes constipation by decreasing gastrointestinal motility. Increasing dietary fiber, fluid intake, and physical activity are recommended to minimize this side effect and promote regular bowel movements.

A. "The risk of suicidal thoughts is highest during the first few weeks of treatment.": This is the most accurate statement. During the initial weeks of antidepressant therapy, especially in adolescents and young adults, the risk of suicidal ideation may increase as energy levels improve before mood stabilizes. Close monitoring during this period is critical.
B. "Antidepressants eliminate the risk of suicidal thoughts in all patients.": While antidepressants help many patients, they do not eliminate the risk of suicidal thoughts. Some individuals may continue to experience or even develop new suicidal ideation, particularly early in treatment.
C. "Suicidal thoughts are a common side effect experienced by most patients.": Suicidal ideation is a serious but not common side effect. It occurs in a subset of patients, particularly younger individuals, and must be monitored closely, but it is not experienced by the majority.
D. "Suicidal thoughts only occur in patients with a history of suicide attempts.": Suicidal ideation can develop in individuals without a previous history. Risk factors include age, underlying psychiatric conditions, and individual response to medication—not just past behavior.