Question

When assessing a patient taking pseudoephedrine (a decongestant), you should caution the patient about potential adverse effects. Check all that apply.

a. Hypotension
b. Tachycardia
c. Restlessness
d. Cough
e. Anxiety
f. Drowsiness

Answer 1

Patients taking pseudoephedrine should be cautioned about potential side effects such as tachycardia, restlessness, anxiety, and drowsiness.

Step-by-step explanation:

When assessing a patient taking pseudoephedrine, a common decongestant, it is important to caution them about potential adverse effects. The effects that you should check for with the patient include:

• Tachycardia (increased heart rate)
• Restlessness
• Anxiety
• Drowsiness

Pseudoephedrine, like other sympathomimetic drugs, can lead to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. It works by stimulating adrenergic receptors, which can result in restlessness and anxiety. It is often found in combination with other substances in cold medications, which may have sedative properties contributing to drowsiness.