The nurse is providing instructions about a client's new medications. How should the nurse explain the purpose of probenecid, a uricosuric drug?

Choice A reason: Priming the inhaler with 7 pumps is an incorrect action, as it wastes the medication and reduces the number of doses available. The nurse should teach the client that ipratropium inhaler only needs to be primed once when it is first used, or if it has not been used for more than 3 days. To prime the inhaler, the client should spray it into the air away from the face until a fine mist appears.

Choice B reason: Rinsing the mouth after each use is a correct action, as it prevents dry mouth and irritation caused by the medication. Ipratropium is an anticholinergic drug that blocks the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that stimulates the secretion of saliva and mucus. The nurse should teach the client to rinse the mouth with water or mouthwash after using the inhaler, and to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

Choice C reason: Storing the medication at room temperature is a correct action, as it preserves the quality and effectiveness of the medication. The nurse should teach the client to store the ipratropium inhaler at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. The nurse should also instruct the client to check the expiration date and the dose counter of the inhaler, and to replace it when it is empty or expired.

Choice D reason: Attaching spacer device to the inhaler is a correct action, as it improves the delivery and absorption of the medication. A spacer is a device that attaches to the mouthpiece of the inhaler and creates a chamber that holds the medication until the client inhales it. The nurse should teach the client to use a spacer with the ipratropium inhaler, as it can reduce the risk of side effects, such as coughing, throat irritation, and hoarseness. The nurse should also teach the client how to clean and maintain the spacer device.

Choice A reason: Antacids can interfere with the absorption of cimetidine. It is generally recommended to avoid taking antacids within 1 hour before or after taking cimetidine to ensure optimal absorption. Therefore, taking cimetidine an hour after antacids is appropriate.

Choice B reason: Notifying the healthcare provider of lethargy is a correct statement, as it may indicate a serious side effect of cimetidine. Cimetidine can cause central nervous system effects, such as confusion, drowsiness, headache, and depression. Lethargy may also be a sign of anemia, which is another possible side effect of cimetidine. The nurse should instruct the client to report any unusual symptoms to the healthcare provider and monitor the client's blood count and liver function.

Choice C reason:Smoking has been shown to impair the effectiveness of cimetidine in treating ulcers and can delay healing. The goal should be complete smoking cessation rather than merely reducing cigarette use. Therefore, the statement about decreasing cigarette use to a pack per day indicates a misunderstanding and requires additional instruction by the nurse.

Choice D reason: Monitoring for any signs of sexual dysfunction is a correct statement, as it may indicate another side effect of cimetidine. Cimetidine can cause endocrine effects, such as gynecomastia, impotence, and decreased libido in men, and menstrual irregularities in women. The nurse should instruct the client to inform the healthcare provider if they experience any changes in their sexual function or reproductive health.