Question

A nurse is caring for a client who has poison ivy and is prescribed diphenhydramine. Which of the following instructions should the nurse give regarding the adverse effect of dry mouth associated with diphenhydramine?

A) "Increase your daily salt intake to counteract dry mouth."
B) "Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugar-free candy to relieve dry mouth."
C) "Stop taking diphenhydramine if dry mouth occurs to avoid further side effects."
D) "Avoid drinking any fluids to prevent dry mouth.

Answer 1

The nurse should advise the patient to chew sugarless gum or suck on sugar-free candy to stimulate saliva flow and help relieve the adverse effect of dry mouth caused by diphenhydramine.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question relates to the nursing care for a client who has been prescribed diphenhydramine for poison ivy and is experiencing dry mouth, an adverse effect of the medication. The correct instruction that the nurse should give regarding the adverse effect of dry mouth associated with diphenhydramine is: "Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugar-free candy to relieve dry mouth."

This advice is helpful because stimulating saliva flow can counteract the dry mouth side effect. It's important to avoid sugary alternatives as they can contribute to tooth decay, particularly in the context of reduced saliva flow. Recommending an increase in salt intake or advising the patient to avoid drinking fluids could exacerbate dry mouth and are not appropriate advice. Telling the patient to stop taking their medication if they experience dry mouth is not recommended without the guidance of a healthcare provider.