An 80-year-old male patient will begin taking an B-antiadrenergic ...

[fnuegbu]

An 80-year-old male patient will begin taking an B-antiadrenergic medication. The primary care NP should teach this patient to:
 
  a. ask for assistance while bathing.
  b. restrict fluids to aid with diuresis.
  c. take the medication in the morning with food.
  d. be aware that priapism is a common side effect.

Question 2

A patient who takes warfarin (Coumadin) experiences excessive bleeding, even though serum drug levels are normal. The primary care NP should question this patient about the use of:
 
  a. feverfew.
  b. echinacea.
  c. green tea.
  d. ginkgo biloba.

[maaaaaaaaaa]

Answer to Question 1

A
All antihypertensives can cause orthostatic hypotension, so patients should be cautioned to avoid sudden changes in position and to use caution when bathing because a hot bath or shower may aggravate dizziness. Older patients are at increased risk for falls and should be cautioned to ask for assistance. Patients taking B-antiadrenergics should consume extra fluids because dehydration can increase the risk of orthostatic hypotension. Patients should take the medication at bedtime because drowsiness is a common side effect. Priapism is not a side effect of these drugs.

Answer to Question 2

D
Ginkgo biloba decreases blood viscosity and can enhance the effects of warfarin. Feverfew, echinacea, and green tea do not have this effect.

[fnuegbu]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it

[ktidd]

Gracias!