Final answer:
The statement from the patient indicating the need for further teaching about verapamil is "I can stop taking verapamil if my blood pressure improves." Verapamil should not be discontinued without medical advice, and the patient should also be aware of potential drug interactions and the need to avoid grapefruit juice.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse is reinforcing a teaching on a patient who has a prescription for verapamil. The statement by the patient that indicates a need for further teaching is: "I can stop taking verapamil if my blood pressure improves." This statement is not correct because verapamil, which is used to treat or improve symptoms of cardiovascular conditions including high blood pressure and heart failure, should not be discontinued without consulting a healthcare provider. Sudden discontinuation can lead to adverse effects and potential rebound hypertension. The patient should continue taking the medication even if blood pressure levels appear to improve, unless advised otherwise by their healthcare professional.
Patient education is critical in managing hypertension, as medications like verapamil are often part of a long-term treatment plan. Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker that not only helps to lower blood pressure but is also used with therapy for cardiac arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) and in treating chest pain (angina). Additionally, patients should be counseled to avoid grapefruit juice while taking verapamil because it can increase the concentration of the medication in the bloodstream, potentially leading to adverse effects.
Moreover, statement four, "I can take verapamil with any other medications," should also be clarified with the patient, as verapamil can interact with other medications. It is always important to discuss all current medications with a healthcare provider to avoid potential drug interactions.