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: Hypernatremia (high sodium levels) is not typically associated with ACE inhibitors like enalapril. These medications do not significantly affect sodium levels in the body.

Choice B reason: Hypokalemia (low potassium levels) is not a common concern with ACE inhibitors. In fact, these medications can sometimes cause the opposite effect, leading to higher potassium levels.

Choice C reason: Hypertension (high blood pressure) is the condition that ACE inhibitors like enalapril are prescribed to treat. While monitoring blood pressure is important, it is not the specific concern related to potassium levels.

Choice D reason: Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) is a significant concern for patients taking ACE inhibitors like enalapril. These medications can increase potassium levels in the blood, which can lead to serious complications such as cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, patients need to be monitored carefully for signs of hyperkalemia, and their potassium levels should be checked regularly.

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.