Question

Which instruction should the nurse provide to the client with diabetes mellitus receiving acarbose (Precose)? Select all that apply.

1. "Take the medication at bedtime."
2. "Take the medication with each meal."
3. "Take the medication on an empty stomach."
4. "Side effects include abdominal bloating and flatus."
5. "Take some form of glucose if hypoglycemia occurs."
6. "Report symptoms such as shortness of breath or tiredness."

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct the client with diabetes mellitus receiving acarbose (Precose) to take the medication with each meal, inform them of the common side effects like abdominal bloating and flatus, and advise them to take some form of glucose if hypoglycemia occurs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should provide the following instructions to the client with diabetes mellitus receiving acarbose (Precose):

1. "Take the medication with each meal." This is because acarbose works by delaying the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, thereby reducing blood sugar spikes after meals.
2. "Side effects include abdominal bloating and flatus." These are common side effects of acarbose and should be expected.
3. "Take some form of glucose if hypoglycemia occurs." Acarbose is not associated with hypoglycemia, but if it does occur for any reason, it is important to treat it promptly with glucose to raise blood sugar levels.