Question

Nurse is providing teaching to patient who has HTN and new script for verapamil. Which of the following statements by the patient indicates understanding of the teaching?

A. I will count my heartbeat before taking the med
B. I should limit my time in the sun while taking this med
C. I should avoid drinking OJ while taking this med
D. I should decrease my fiber intake while taking this med

Answer 1

The statement indicating understanding is: 'I will count my heartbeat before taking the med,' as verapamil can lower heart rate, and patients should monitor for bradycardia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer to the question regarding a patient with hypertension (HTN) who has a new prescription for verapamil is A: 'I will count my heartbeat before taking the med.' Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker, and like beta blockers, it can decrease heart rate. Patients are often advised to monitor their heart rate (pulse) to ensure it does not drop too low (bradycardia), which can be a side effect of the medication. Therefore, if a patient understands the need to monitor their heart rate before taking the medication, it indicates good comprehension of the teaching. Answer B is incorrect because there is no particular need to limit time in the sun with verapamil. Answer C is irrelevant as there is no common interaction between verapamil and orange juice (OJ). Answer D is also inappropriate because there is no recommendation to decrease fiber intake while taking verapamil; in fact, a diet high in fiber can be beneficial for patients with hypertension.