More Questions On This Topic
More Questions On This Topic ( 21 Questions)
A nurse is caring for a client with gestational hypertension who has been prescribed labetalol (Normodyne) to control blood pressure during pregnancy.
Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the medication?
Labetalol can be taken with or without food. Taking it on an empty stomach does not affect its absorption or efficacy.
Labetalol does not affect potassium levels in the blood. Foods high in potassium are not contraindicated while taking this medication.
Labetalol can lower blood pressure and cause orthostatic hypotension, which can lead to falls and injuries. The patient should be advised to change positions slowly and monitor their blood pressure regularly while taking labetalol.
Swelling in the feet or hands can be a sign of worsening preeclampsia, which is a serious complication of hypertension in pregnancy. The patient should not stop taking labetalol without consulting their doctor, as this can cause rebound hypertension and endanger the mother and the fetus. The patient should seek medical attention if they experience swelling, headache, vision changes, abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movements
The correct answer is choice C) “I should report any dizziness or lightheadedness while taking this medication.” This is because labetalol can lower blood pressure and cause orthostatic hypotension, which can lead to falls and injuries. The patient should be advised to change positions slowly and monitor their blood pressure regularly while taking labetalol.
Choice A is wrong because labetalol can be taken with or without food. Taking it on an empty stomach does not affect its absorption or efficacy.
Choice B is wrong because labetalol does not affect potassium levels in the blood. Foods high in potassium are not contraindicated while taking this medication.
Choice D is wrong because swelling in the feet or hands can be a sign of worsening preeclampsia, which is a serious complication of hypertension in pregnancy. The patient should not stop taking labetalol without consulting their doctor, as this can cause rebound hypertension and endanger the mother and the fetus. The patient should seek medical attention if they experience swelling, headache, vision changes, abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movements.