Question

A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has emphysema and

a new prescription for theophylline. Which of the following
instructions should the nurse provide?

(A) Consume a high-protein diet.
(B) Administer the medication with food.
(C) Avoid caffeine while taking this medication.
(D) Increase fluids to 1L/per day.

Answer 1

The patient with emphysema on theophylline should avoid caffeine due to the similar pharmacological actions that can intensify adverse effects.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct instruction that the nurse should provide to a client who has emphysema and a new prescription for theophylline is (C) Avoid caffeine while taking this medication. Theophylline is a methylxanthine, similar in structure and effects to caffeine. Both theophylline and caffeine can stimulate the central nervous system and relax smooth muscle including the bronchial muscles. Consuming caffeine while taking theophylline can intensify side effects such as nervousness, tremors, or heart palpitations because of their similar pharmacological actions. Therefore, it is important to avoid caffeine to prevent any potential adverse or heightened effects.