Question

A nurse is teaching a client with a new prescription for combined oral contraceptives about potential adverse effects. For which of the following findings should the nurse instruct the client to notify the provider?

a) Weight gain of 2 pounds in a week.

b) Mild headache lasting for 30 minutes.

c) Increased appetite.

d) Visual changes or disturbances.

Answer 1

A client on oral contraceptives should immediately notify their provider if they experience visual changes or disturbances, as this may indicate a severe side effect such as increased risk of stroke or heart attack.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse instructing a client with a new prescription for combined oral contraceptives should advise them to be vigilant for several potential adverse effects. Among these, the client should be particularly concerned about any visual changes or disturbances. Such symptoms can be indicative of more serious conditions, such as an increased risk of stroke or heart attack, which are known severe negative side effects of oral contraceptives. The client should notify their healthcare provider immediately if they experience this type of symptom.