Question

The nurse instructs a group of postmenopausal women about hormone therapy (HT). Which information should the nurse include in the teaching plan?

A. The most frequent adverse effect of HT is headache.
B. HT increases the risk of stroke and venous thromboembolism.
C. Blood levels of estrogen are more consistent with oral HT.
D. HT may cause a harmless yellow discoloration of the skin.

Answer 1

The nurse should inform postmenopausal women that hormone therapy increases the risk of stroke and venous thromboembolism and that it should be used at the lowest dose and for the shortest time necessary.

Step-by-step explanation:

When instructing postmenopausal women about hormone therapy (HT), it is important to discuss its risks and benefits. One key piece of information to include is that HT increases the risk of stroke and venous thromboembolism. While hormone therapy can alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and help with the prevention of osteoporosis, it also carries significant risks. Additionally, current guidelines suggest that HT should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary, accompanied by regular health screenings.