Question

A patient with gestational hypertension is prescribed labetalol hydrochloride (Normodyne) therapy, which is continued after giving birth. What does the nurse instruct the patient about breastfeeding?

a. "You may breastfeed the infant if you desire."
b. "Breastfeeding may cause convulsions in the infant."
c. "Breastfeed only once a day and use infant formulas."
d. "There may be high levels of the drug in the breast milk."

Answer 1

The nurse should inform the patient that there may be high levels of the drug in the breast milk when taking labetalol hydrochloride (Normodyne) therapy and breastfeeding.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should instruct the patient with gestational hypertension who is prescribed labetalol hydrochloride (Normodyne) therapy and continues to breastfeed that there may be high levels of the drug in the breast milk. It is important to note that labetalol can pass into breast milk and may affect the infant. Therefore, it is crucial for the patient to consult with their healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and risks of breastfeeding while taking labetalol.