NCLEX: A 72-year-old client in a long-term care facility is being evaluated for a newly prescribed medication regimen. A…
PharmacologyPharmacological and Parenteral Therapies
Case Study
A 72-year-old client in a long-term care facility is being evaluated for a newly prescribed medication regimen. Assessment data include the client has potassium 5.8 mEq/L with muscle weakness on the monitor. The nurse is evaluating discharge teaching. Which client statement shows correct understanding?
Question
A. "I will stop my medications when I feel better."
B. "I will call the nurse if I have new or worse symptoms before my follow-up appointment."
C. "I do not need to report mild symptoms unless they become unbearable."
D. "The nurse does not need to know about changes unless the provider asks."
Rationale
Correct answer: B. "I will call the nurse if I have new or worse symptoms before my follow-up appointment."
Rationale: Effective teaching includes when to seek help for worsening symptoms. Stopping medications or delaying reports are unsafe.
Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.