An older adult client with hypertension has recently been prescribed a beta-adrenergic blocker and a thiazide diuretic. When educating the client about preventing and managing adverse effects, the nurse will provide which instruction?
"Change positions slowly to prevent lightheadedness or dizziness."
"Reduce your fluid intake initially, to prevent excessive urination."
"Identify and eliminate any high-potassium foods from your diet."
"Expect your blood pressure to increase for several days before it begins to decrease."
The Correct Answer is A
A. Changing positions slowly is critical for older adults taking beta-adrenergic blockers and diuretics to prevent orthostatic hypotension, which can lead to lightheadedness or dizziness.
B. Reducing fluid intake is not advisable, as thiazide diuretics can lead to dehydration, and maintaining adequate fluid intake is essential for overall health and to avoid excessive urinary output.
C. Identifying and eliminating high-potassium foods is unnecessary unless there is a specific indication of hyperkalemia, particularly since thiazide diuretics do not typically cause potassium retention, and beta-blockers are not potassium-specific.
D. Expecting blood pressure to increase before it decreases is misleading; clients should see a gradual reduction in blood pressure with proper medication adherence, and any sudden increases should be reported.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Taking smaller doses of decongestants several times a day may be appropriate for some medications but does not address the risk of rebound congestion associated with prolonged use.
B. Expecting relief within a few days may not be realistic if the cold symptoms persist for 2 weeks, indicating a potential need for further evaluation.
C. OTC decongestants can be effective, and many patients find relief from symptoms without requiring a prescription.
D. Using decongestants for an extended period can lead to rebound congestion, where nasal passages become more congested once the medication is stopped, making this a crucial point for the nurse to communicate.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
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B. While auscultating the lungs is important to monitor respiratory function, it does not specifically address a common adverse effect of morphine.
C. Encouraging active range of motion exercises can help prevent complications from immobility but does not directly address the most common adverse effect of morphine.
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