The nurse is caring for a patient who is taking a calcium-channel blocker.
What adverse effects would the nurse caution this patient about?

Choice A rationale

Generic medications are equivalents to brand name drugs and are not typically a priority query unless there's an issue of consistency in medication use.

Choice B rationale

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can interact with prescription medications or have side effects, so it’s crucial to know if a patient is taking any.

Choice C rationale

This question is important for women who are pregnant but is not the primary concern when assessing general medication use.

Choice D rationale

Orphan drugs are used to treat rare conditions and are less likely to be encountered in a general assessment.

Choice A rationale

Asking the patient what time of day the medication is taken can help identify if taking it at a different time might alleviate sleep disturbances. SSRIs like sertraline can cause insomnia if taken later in the day.

Choice B rationale

Recommending a weekly dosage is inappropriate and could potentially disrupt the therapeutic effect. SSRIs should be taken daily, as prescribed.

Choice C rationale

Counseling the patient to take the medication at bedtime could worsen sleep disturbances, as sertraline may cause insomnia in some individuals. Timing should be adjusted based on patient response.

Choice D rationale

Suggesting a lower dose without consulting the provider may not address the issue effectively and could reduce the efficacy of the medication. Dosage adjustments should be made based on clinical assessment and provider recommendation.