A nurse provides teaching for a patient who is newly diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the drug therapy for this disease?

Choice A reason: Beta blockers are commonly used to treat cardiac dysrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). They work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart, which helps to reduce the heart rate and regulate the rhythm. This makes beta blockers effective in managing conditions such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular arrhythmias, and supraventricular tachycardia.

Choice B reason: Hypotension (low blood pressure) is not typically treated with beta blockers. In fact, beta blockers can sometimes lower blood pressure, so they are usually avoided in patients with pre-existing hypotension. Instead, other medications or treatments are used to manage low blood pressure.

Choice C reason: Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is not treated with beta blockers. The primary treatment for hypothyroidism is thyroid hormone replacement therapy, usually with levothyroxine. Beta blockers do not address the underlying issue of thyroid hormone deficiency and are not used in the management of this condition.

Choice D reason: Beta blockers are used to treat heart failure, particularly in patients with systolic heart failure. They help to reduce the workload on the heart, improve heart function, and decrease the risk of hospitalization and mortality. By slowing the heart rate and reducing the force of contraction, beta blockers can help to manage symptoms and improve outcomes in heart failure patients.

Choice E reason: Beta blockers are used to treat stage fright (performance anxiety) because they help to control physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heart rate, trembling, and sweating. By blocking the effects of adrenaline, beta blockers can help individuals feel calmer and more composed during stressful situations, such as public speaking or performing in front of an audience.

Choice A reason: The levodopa/carbidopa combination is commonly used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Levodopa is a precursor to dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is deficient in the brains of people with Parkinson's disease. Carbidopa helps prevent the breakdown of levodopa before it reaches the brain, increasing its effectiveness. This combination is widely recognized as an effective treatment for improving motor function in Parkinson's patients. Understanding this combination therapy indicates that the patient is aware of the primary approach to managing their condition.

Choice B reason: While some patients may begin to see improvements in their symptoms within a few days to a week of starting levodopa/carbidopa therapy, it is not guaranteed for all patients. The response to the medication can vary, and some individuals may take longer to notice significant improvements. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations and understand that the treatment response can be individualized.

Choice C reason: While drug therapy can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life in Parkinson's disease, it does not significantly slow the progression of the disease. Parkinson's is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, and current medications primarily aim to alleviate symptoms rather than alter the course of the disease. Thus, this statement indicates a misunderstanding of the primary purpose of the medication.

Choice D reason: The dosing of Parkinson's medications, including levodopa/carbidopa, is typically adjusted based on the patient's response and symptom control. It is not standard practice to reduce the dose after a couple of months automatically. In fact, over time, some patients may require higher doses or additional medications to maintain symptom control. Therefore, this statement reflects a misunderstanding of the typical management of Parkinson's disease.