Question

A client with primary hypertension reports dizziness with ambulation when taking the prescribed alpha-adrenergic blocker. When teaching this client, what should the nurse emphasize?

a. Rising slowly from a lying or sitting position
b. Increasing fluids to maintain BP
c. Stopping medication if dizziness persists
d. Taking medication first thing in the morning

Answer 1

The nurse should advise the client with primary hypertension taking an alpha-adrenergic blocker to rise slowly from a lying or sitting position to prevent orthostatic hypotension and dizziness.

Step-by-step explanation:

When teaching a client with primary hypertension who reports dizziness with ambulation after taking an alpha-adrenergic blocker, the nurse should emphasize the importance of rising slowly from a lying or sitting position to prevent orthostatic hypotension. This is a condition where blood pressure drops significantly when a person stands up quickly, causing dizziness due to a temporary decrease in blood flow to the brain. The client should understand that their medication can lead to a reduction in blood volume or affect the fluid balance, which necessitates careful positional changes to maintain blood pressure and prevent dizziness.