A patient with chest pain is prescribed nitroglycerin. After taking the medication the patient reports no more chest pain, but is experiencing a headache. Which medication from the choices below would the nurse anticipate the doctor to order for this new symptom?

A. Suggest taking docusate sodium simultaneously with stimulant laxatives to maximize bowel movement:Combining docusate sodium with stimulant laxatives is unnecessary for routine constipation prevention and may increase the risk of diarrhea or cramping. Docusate works effectively on its own when adequate hydration is maintained.

B. Administer the medication with minimal fluids to increase absorption of the medication:
Docusate sodium is a stool softener that works by drawing water into the stool. Administering it with minimal fluids would reduce its effectiveness and may worsen constipation.

C. Advise the patient to avoid physical activity while taking docusate sodium:Physical activity promotes normal bowel motility. Restricting activity is counterproductive and does not enhance the therapeutic effect of docusate.

D. Encourage increased fluid intake to aid in softening the stool:Docusate sodium acts as a surfactant, allowing water and fats to penetrate the stool. Adequate fluid intake enhances this effect, making bowel movements softer and easier to pass, supporting the drug’s intended therapeutic outcome.

A. Ask the client which medication they prefer to take:Asking the client to choose between duplicated medications places a clinical decision beyond the client’s scope. Medication selection and adjustment require prescriber evaluation of indication, dose, and risk for adverse effects. Client input is valuable but cannot replace provider decision-making.

B. Discontinue one of the medications immediately:Stopping a medication without a prescription exceeds the nurse’s scope of practice. Abrupt discontinuation may cause therapeutic failure or adverse effects, depending on the drug class. Medication changes must be authorized by the prescribing provider.

C. Continue with the current medications as prescribed:Continuing duplicated medications increases the risk of toxicity, overdose, or compounded adverse effects. Medication reconciliation is intended to identify and resolve discrepancies before harm occurs. Ignoring duplication defeats the purpose of the safety check.

D. Notify the healthcare provider for further instructions:Notifying the healthcare provider allows clarification of the intended regimen and prevention of medication-related harm. The provider can discontinue, adjust, or substitute medications as appropriate. This action supports safe medication management and interprofessional communication.