Question

A nurse is teaching a client about the effects of diphenhydramine (Benadryl), an ingredient in the cough suppressant prescribed for the client. The nurse should plan to tell the client to take which measure while taking this medication?

1) Take it on an empty stomach.
2) Avoid activities requiring mental alertness.
3) Use alcohol for additional effect in reducing cough.
4) Avoid chewing sugarless gum or using oral rinses mouth.

Answer 1

The client should be advised to avoid activities that require mental alertness while taking diphenhydramine (Benadryl), an antihistamine known for causing drowsiness. Alcohol should also be avoided as it can amplify the sedative effects.

Step-by-step explanation:

When educating a client about the effects of diphenhydramine (Benadryl), it is important to advise them on precautions to ensure safe use. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine known for its sedative effects, which can impair mental alertness. Therefore, the nurse should instruct the client to avoid activities that require mental alertness (such as driving or operating machinery) while taking this medication. Additionally, it is important not to combine diphenhydramine with alcohol as this can increase drowsiness and potentially lead to additional adverse effects.

It is not necessary to take diphenhydramine on an empty stomach unless specified by the healthcare provider. Chewing sugarless gum or using oral rinses should also not be specifically avoided while taking this medication unless the client experiences dry mouth as a side effect and using these products exacerbates the issue.