Question

The nurse has provided patient education regarding therapy with the SERM raloxifene (Evista). Which statement from the patient reflects a good understanding of the instruction?

a) "when I take that long flight to Asia, I will need to stop taking this drug at least 3 days before I travel"
b) "I can continue this drug even when traveling as long as I take it with a full glass of water each time."
c) "After i take this drug, I must sit upright for at least 30 minute."
d) One advantage of this drug is that it will reduce my hot flashes"

Answer 1

The statement indicating that the patient will stop taking raloxifene before a long flight reflects a good understanding of the education provided by the nurse due to the increased risk of blood clots during long periods of immobility.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct statement from the patient that reflects a good understanding of the nurse's patient education regarding therapy with the SERM raloxifene (Evista) is option a: "when I take that long flight to Asia, I will need to stop taking this drug at least 3 days before I travel". Raloxifene is known to increase the risk of blood clots which can be a particular concern during long periods of immobility, such as during a lengthy flight.

The patient's recognition of the need to cease taking the drug prior to travel to reduce the risk of blood clot formation demonstrates an understanding of the drug's side effects and necessary precautions. Options b, c and d don't accurately reflect the best understanding of the drug's use and side effects. Specifically raloxifene is not associated with the need to sit upright after ingestion like some bisphosphonates, and it does not reduce hot flashes—in fact it may actually cause them.