A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is taking hydrochlorothiazide. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
Take the medication on an empty stomach.
Muscle weakness is an expected adverse effect.
Increase daily intake of foods high in potassium.
Take the medication at bedtime.
The Correct Answer is C
Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic commonly used to treat hypertension and edema. One of the potential side effects of hydrochlorothiazide is hypokalemia (low potassium levels). To help counteract this effect, it is important for the client to increase their daily intake of foods high in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, spinach, avocados, and potatoes. This helps maintain adequate potassium levels in the body.
The other options mentioned are incorrect:
Take the medication on an empty stomach: Hydrochlorothiazide can be taken with or without food. It does not need to be taken on an empty stomach.
Muscle weakness is an expected adverse effect: Muscle weakness is not a common or expected adverse effect of hydrochlorothiazide. If the client experiences muscle weakness, they should notify their healthcare provider.
Take the medication at bedtime: Hydrochlorothiazide can be taken at any time of the day. There is no specific requirement to take it at bedtime. The dosing schedule should be determined based on the individual's needs and healthcare provider's instructions.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
When the client experiences cramping during the enema administration, it indicates that the colon is becoming distended. By allowing the client to expel some of the fluid, the pressure in the colon is reduced, which can help alleviate the discomfort and cramping. The nurse should pause the administration of the enema and allow the client to release some fluid before continuing.
The other options mentioned are not appropriate or effective actions to relieve the client's discomfort:
Lowering the height of the solution container: Lowering the height of the solution container will decrease the force of the fluid flow but may not address the underlying cause of the cramping. Allowing the client to expel some fluid is a more appropriate intervention.
Stopping the enema and documenting that the client did not tolerate the procedure: While it is important to monitor the client's tolerance during the procedure, abruptly stopping the enema and documenting intolerance may not be necessary if the discomfort can be relieved by allowing the client to expel some fluid. The nurse should prioritize relieving the discomfort before deciding to stop the procedure.
Encouraging the client to bear down: Bearing down or pushing can increase intra-abdominal pressure and exacerbate the cramping. This action is not recommended in this situation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Cimetidine is a medication known as a histamine H2 receptor antagonist, commonly used in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease. It works by reducing the production of stomach acid. When teaching a client about cimetidine, it is important to inform them about the timing of taking other medications, specifically antacids.
Antacids, which are used to neutralize stomach acid, can interfere with the absorption of cimetidine if taken simultaneously. Therefore, it is generally recommended to wait at least 1 hour after taking cimetidine before taking an antacid. This allows sufficient time for the cimetidine to be absorbed and start working effectively before neutralizing stomach acid with an antacid.

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