Question

The female client with newly diagnosed migraine is being discharged with a prescription for sumatriptan (Imitrex). Which comment by the client indicates an understanding of the nurse's discharge instructions?

A) "Sumatriptan should be taken as a last resort."
B) "I must report any chest pain right away."
C) "Birth control is not needed while taking sumatriptan."
D) "St. John's wort can also be taken to help my symptoms."

Answer 1

The understanding of the nurse's discharge instructions is shown by the client's awareness to report any chest pain immediately, which is a potential serious side effect of sumatriptan. the correct option is B) "I must report any chest pain right away."

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer indicating an understanding of the nurse's discharge instructions is B) "I must report any chest pain right away." Using sumatriptan (Imitrex) for migraines involves certain precautions and understanding of potential side effects. Chest pain can be a serious side effect of sumatriptan, as it may indicate a cardiovascular problem such as angina or a heart attack, which requires immediate medical attention.

It is not a medication that should only be taken as a last resort; it is designed to be taken early in the course of a migraine to be most effective. Birth control measures should still be considered unless otherwise advised by a healthcare provider as sumatriptan does not interact with the effectiveness of birth control methods. Lastly, St. John's wort should generally be avoided or discussed with a healthcare provider before combining with sumatriptan, as it can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.