The nurse is teaching a patient about taking hydrochlorothiazide. ...

[vicky]

The nurse is teaching a patient about taking hydrochlorothiazide . Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?
 
  a. I may need extra sodium and calcium while taking this drug.
  b. I should eat plenty of fruits and vegetables while taking this medication.
  c. I should take care when rising from a bed or chair when I'm on this medication.
  d. I will take the medication in the morning to minimize certain side effects.

Question 2

A patient who has begun taking nifedipine (Procardia) to treat variant angina has had a recurrent blood pressure of 90/60 mm Hg or less. The nurse will anticipate that the provider will
 
  a. add digoxin to the drug regimen.
  b. change to a beta blocker.
  c. order serum liver enzymes.
  d. switch to diltiazem (Cardizem).

[patma1981]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Patients do not need extra sodium or calcium while taking thiazide diuretics.
Thiazide diuretics can lead to hypokalemia, so patients should be counseled to eat fruits and vegetables that are high in potassium. Patients can develop orthostatic hypotension and should be counseled to rise from sitting or lying down slowly. Taking the medication in the morning helps to prevent nocturia-induced insomnia.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Hypotension is a common effect of calcium channel blockers and is more common with nifedipine. It is less common with diltiazem, so the provider may order that drug. Adding digoxin, changing to a beta blocker, or ordering serum liver enzymes are not indicated.

[vicky]

Thanks

[patma1981]

Welcome