A patient taking entacapone (Comtan) for Parkinson's disease ...

[berenicecastro]

A patient taking entacapone (Comtan) for Parkinson's disease informs the nurse that his urine is now brownish-orange in color. What is the nurse's best action?
 
  a. Explain that this is an expected side effect and is not harmful.
  b. Collect a urine sample and send it to the laboratory for urinalysis.
  c. Hold the drug and immediately notify the prescriber.
  d. Instruct the patient to increase his intake of fluids.

Question 2

A patient with Parkinson's disease informs the nurse that the stiffness and slowness of move-ments associated with the illness have become worse. What does the nurse teach the patient about this change?
 
  a. These changes are normal and expected as your disease progresses.
  b. You will need to use a walker at all times to avoid falls and accidents.
  c. Whenever your symptoms worsen, contact your prescriber right away.
  d. If your prescriber increases your drug dosage these functions will improve.

[ebenov]

Answer to Question 1

A
Entacapone may discolor a patient's urine brownish-orange. This is an expected side effect and is not harmful.

Answer to Question 2

C
Patients should be taught to immediately notify their prescriber if symptoms of Parkinson's dis-ease (e.g., shaking, stiffness, or slowness of movement) become worse.

[berenicecastro]

Gracias!

[tkempin]

Excellent