Question

A patient who is taking furosemide [Lasix] and digoxin will begin taking captopril [Capoten]. The nurse is providing information about the drug. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?

a. "I can use acetaminophen for analgesia if needed."
b. "I should stop taking the Lasix about a week before starting the Capoten."
c. "I should take this medication on a full stomach."
d. "I will need to have blood tests done every 2 weeks for a few months."

Answer 1

The statement regarding stopping Lasix before starting Capoten indicates a need for further teaching. Furosemide works as a loop diuretic to increase urine output by inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption, and there is typically no need to stop it before starting an ACE inhibitor like captopril.

Step-by-step explanation:

The patient statement that indicates a need for further teaching is: "I should stop taking the Lasix about a week before starting the Capoten." Furosemide (Lasix) is a loop diuretic often used to treat conditions such as heart failure or hypertension, and it works on the loop of Henle by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl-) ions. This action increases urination because it prevents water from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream, leading to increased urine output. Captopril (Capoten) is an ACE inhibitor used to treat hypertension and heart failure; there is typically no need to stop taking furosemide before starting captopril unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider. It is important for the patient to continue taking both medications as prescribed unless instructed otherwise. Additionally, captopril is better absorbed on an empty stomach, so taking it with food as mentioned in statement 'c' would not be accurate and may require further clarification with the patient.