The nurse is providing patient education to a patient with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and their family. The patient has been prescribed donepezil hydrochloride.
What should the nurse explain to the patient and family about this drug?

Choice A rationale
Triptans, a class of medications commonly used to treat migraines, can cause vasoconstriction, or narrowing of the blood vessels. This can be problematic for patients with angina, a condition characterized by reduced blood flow to the heart. Vasoconstriction could potentially exacerbate this condition, leading to an increased risk of a heart attack. Therefore, the use of triptans may be contraindicated in patients with angina.

Choice B rationale
While asthma is a serious condition that requires careful management, it is not typically considered a contraindication for the use of triptans. Triptans work primarily on the blood vessels in the brain and do not typically interact with the bronchial tubes affected by asthma.
Choice C rationale
Age alone is not typically a contraindication for the use of triptans. However, older adults may have a higher risk of certain health conditions, such as heart disease, which could make the use of triptans more risky. It’s important for healthcare providers to consider the overall health status of the patient, not just their age, when deciding whether to prescribe triptans.
Choice D rationale
While stress can certainly exacerbate migraines, it is not typically a contraindication for the use of triptans. Triptans are designed to relieve the pain and other symptoms of migraines, regardless of their cause. If a patient’s migraines are triggered by stress, it may be beneficial to explore stress management techniques in addition to medication.

Choice A rationale
Analgesics can be used to manage pain associated with Bell’s palsy. Therefore, this statement does not indicate a need for further education.
Choice B rationale

This is the correct answer. Chewing on the affected side can actually exacerbate swallowing issues. Therefore, this statement indicates a need for further education.
Choice C rationale
Brushing teeth should not be affected by Bell’s palsy. Therefore, this statement does not indicate a need for further education.
Choice D rationale
Applying a protective eye shield before going to bed is a recommended practice for patients with Bell’s palsy. This helps to protect the eye from injury and keep it moist, as Bell’s palsy can cause difficulty in blinking or closing the eye.