Question

A nurse is preparing to teach a client who is to start a new prescription for extended-release verapamil. Which of the following instructions should the nurse plan to include?

A. "Take the medication on an empty stomach."
B. "Crush the medication if you have difficulty swallowing."
C. "Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice."
D. "Double the dose if you miss one to catch up."

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct the client to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice when starting a new prescription for extended-release verapamil.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should include the instruction to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice when teaching a client who is starting a new prescription for extended-release verapamil. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with verapamil and increase the levels of the medication in the body, leading to potential side effects and adverse reactions. Therefore, it is important for the client to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking verapamil.