The nurse is caring for a client who is being treated for peptic ulcer disease. Which medication should the client be taught to avoid?

A. Decreased cardiac output: Inotropic medications are intended to improve cardiac function and increase cardiac output, so monitoring for signs of decreased cardiac output would be contrary to the expected therapeutic effect of these medications.

B. Increased afterload: Inotropic medications primarily affect the contractility of the heart muscle and do not typically have a direct effect on afterload (the force against which the heart must pump blood). While changes in afterload can occur as a secondary consequence of altered cardiac function, monitoring for signs of increased afterload would not be the primary focus after administering an inotropic medication.

C. Increased cardiac output.
Inotropic medications are drugs that affect the contractility of the heart muscle. They are often used in the management of shock to improve cardiac function and increase cardiac output. Therefore, after administering an inotropic medication, the nurse would monitor the patient for signs of increased cardiac output, such as improved peripheral perfusion, increased blood pressure, and resolution of signs and symptoms of shock.

D. Slowing of the heart rate: Inotropic medications can affect heart rate indirectly by altering cardiac output, but their primary effect is on contractility rather than heart rate. Monitoring for signs of bradycardia (slowing of the heart rate) may be appropriate in certain clinical situations, but it is not the primary consideration after administering an inotropic medication for shock.

Antidiarrheal medications are the most effective drugs for controlling severe diarrhea. These medications work by slowing down bowel movements and reducing the frequency and liquidity of stools. The two main types of antidiarrheal drugs are:

Loperamide: Loperamide is an over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication that works by slowing down the movement of the intestines and reducing the frequency of bowel movements. It is effective for treating acute diarrhea and traveler's diarrhea.

Bismuth subsalicylate: Bismuth subsalicylate is another over-the-counter medication that can help control diarrhea. It works by reducing inflammation in the intestines and slowing down the passage of stools. Bismuth subsalicylate also has antimicrobial properties, which may help in cases of infectious diarrhea.

These medications are often used in combination with rehydration therapy to manage severe diarrhea effectively. However, it is important to use antidiarrheal medications cautiously and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as they may not be suitable for all individuals, especially those with certain medical conditions or those taking other medications. Additionally, it is essential to address the underlying cause of diarrhea, especially if it persists or worsens despite treatment with antidiarrheal medications. Consulting a healthcare provider is recommended for proper diagnosis and management of severe diarrhea.