Question

The nurse is caring for a client withdrawing from a fentanyl citrate addiction. The client receives a prescription for clonidine 0.2 mg PO taken twice daily. Which action should the nurse take?

a. Monitor for signs of signs of bleeding or hemorrhage.
b. Compare daily electrolyte levels prior to each morning dose.
c. Advise to sit up slowly from a reclining position.
d. Administer the medication on an empty stomach.

Answer 1

The nurse should advise the client to sit up slowly from a reclining position to minimize the risk of a drop in blood pressure caused by clonidine.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should take action c. Advise the client to sit up slowly from a reclining position.

Clonidine is a medication that is commonly used to manage withdrawal symptoms in individuals with opioid addiction. It helps to reduce symptoms such as anxiety, sweating, and elevated blood pressure. However, clonidine can cause a drop in blood pressure when changing positions, which can lead to dizziness or fainting. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to advise the client to sit up slowly to minimize the risk of this side effect.