Question

A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is to start taking alendronate sodium. Which of the following recommendations should the nurse include in the teaching?

a) Take the medication with a full glass of milk.
b) Take the medication at bedtime.
c) Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication.
d) Crush the medication and mix it with food for easier ingestion.

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct the client to take alendronate sodium with a full glass of water, first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach, and to remain upright for at least 30 minutes after administration. The correct teaching point is: Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication.

Step-by-step explanation:

When teaching a client who is to start taking alendronate sodium, a bisphosphonate medication often prescribed for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis, it is important to include the correct method of administration. The nurse should instruct the client to:

• Take the medication with a full glass of water (not milk), to ensure adequate absorption.
• Take the medication first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before having any food or other drinks.
• Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication. This helps prevent esophageal irritation and ensures the medication travels to the stomach quickly where it can be absorbed.

Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is: c) Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication.

It is important to note that the medication should not be taken at bedtime. Alendronate sodium tablets should also not be crushed or mixed with food, as this can interfere with the drug's effectiveness.