Question

The nurse instructs a patient in the administration of Lugol's solution. The nurse determines that teaching has been effective if the patient makes which statement?

"I'll need to take this solution for the rest of my life."
"The medication should be diluted in fruit juice."
"To prevent stains on my teeth, I'll use a straw."
"The solution should be placed under my tongue."

Answer 1

The patient demonstrates effective understanding of administering Lugol's solution when they state they will use a straw to prevent staining of the teeth.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse instructs a patient in the administration of Lugol's solution, a key aspect of effective teaching is that the patient should understand how to administer the medication safely and correctly. Lugol's solution, a form of iodine, is typically prescribed to treat thyroid conditions and is also used as a disinfectant. Unlike the laboratory procedures involving Benedict's solution or dilution of stock solutions with sterile solutions, which are performed by healthcare professionals, Lugol's solution can be administered by the patient at home.

For proper administration, the patient should make the statement, "To prevent stains on my teeth, I'll use a straw." This suggests the patient understands the correct way to take the medication to prevent the potential staining of teeth due to iodine present in the Lugol's solution. It is also important that the patient is aware of the medication's concentration and duration of treatment as prescribed by their healthcare provider, which can vary based on individual needs.