A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for aluminum hydroxide to treat heartburn. The nurse should instruct the client to monitor for and report which of the following adverse reactions?

Choice A reason: Monitor the patient for addiction is not a necessary measure for the nurse to take when administering codeine cough syrup, which is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the brain¹. Codeine is a Schedule V medication, which means that it has a low potential for abuse and dependence compared to other opioids. The nurse should follow the prescriber's order and the label instructions and use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. The nurse should also assess the patient's pain level, respiratory status, and cough frequency and severity.

Choice B reason: Advise the patient that the medication helps to thin out their secretions is an incorrect statement for the nurse to make when administering codeine cough syrup, which is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the brain¹. Codeine does not affect the viscosity or production of the mucus in the airways, but rather reduces the urge to cough. The nurse should advise the patient to drink plenty of fluids, use a humidifier, or use saline nasal spray to help loosen and clear the secretions.

Choice C reason: Advise the patient to minimize intake of beets is not a relevant measure for the nurse to take when administering codeine cough syrup, which is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the brain¹. Beets are a vegetable that are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and nitrates, which can lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. Beets do not interact with codeine or affect its metabolism or clearance. The nurse should encourage the patient to eat a balanced and nutritious diet, unless they have any dietary restrictions or allergies.

Choice D reason: Advise the patient that constipation is an adverse effect of the medication is the correct and appropriate measure for the nurse to take when administering codeine cough syrup, which is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the brain¹. Codeine can also act on the opioid receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, which can reduce the peristalsis and cause constipation. The nurse should advise the patient to prevent or treat constipation by increasing their fluid and fiber intake, exercising regularly, and using laxatives or stool softeners as needed.

Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Aspirin can be used to relieve headache, but that is not its main function in this context. Aspirin is prescribed to patients who have had a heart attack to reduce the risk of another one.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Aspirin can be used to reduce fever, but that is not its main function in this context. Aspirin is prescribed to patients who have had a heart attack to reduce the risk of another one.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Aspirin does not act as an antiviral. It has no effect on viral infections. Aspirin is prescribed to patients who have had a heart attack to reduce the risk of another one.

Choice D reason: This is correct. Aspirin prevents further clot formation by inhibiting the activity of platelets, which are blood cells that help form clots. Clots can block the blood flow to the heart and cause a heart attack. Aspirin reduces the chance of this happening by making the blood less sticky.