Question

A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has hypertension and a new prescription for verapamil. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

a) Increase dietary intake of potassium-rich foods
b) Monitor blood pressure regularly at the same time each day
c) Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking verapamil
d) Take the medication with a high-fat meal to enhance absorption

Answer 1

The nurse should include the information that the client should avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking verapamil in the teaching session.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should include the information that the client should avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking verapamil in the teaching session.

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with verapamil and increase the risk of side effects. Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker medication used to treat hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions. Grapefruit can inhibit the enzyme that metabolizes verapamil, leading to increased levels of the medication in the body and potential toxicity.

It is important for the client to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking verapamil to ensure the safe and effective use of the medication.