Question

The nurse is performing discharge teaching on a client with rheumatoid arthritis who has been prescribed hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil). Which statement by the client indicates that he understood the instructions given? A. "I should report any blurred vision or headache." B. "I have to take folic acid with this drug." C. "I should expect results in six months." D. "I should take this medication on an empty stomach."

Short answer

A) I should report any blurred vision or headache. B) I have to take folic acid with this drug. C) I should expect results in six months. D) I should take this medication on an empty stomach. Answer: A) I should report any blurred vision or headache.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the correct statement

To determine which statement correctly indicates that the client has understood the instructions given about hydroxychloroquine, the student must have knowledge about the drug and its usage for rheumatoid arthritis treatment. The student will have to analyze each answer choice and decide which one correctly reflects the instructions given for hydroxychloroquine use.

Analyze Answer Choice A

"I should report any blurred vision or headache." This statement is correct, as hydroxychloroquine can cause retinal toxicity, leading to vision problems. It is important for patients to report any visual disturbances or headaches immediately. This answer choice indicates that the client understands the need to monitor for potential side effects.

Analyze Answer Choice B

"I have to take folic acid with this drug." Although folic acid is often prescribed as a supplement in association with other medications used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, such as methotrexate, it is not specifically required to be taken with hydroxychloroquine. This answer choice does not demonstrate understanding of hydroxychloroquine instructions.

Analyze Answer Choice C

"I should expect results in six months." Rheumatoid arthritis patients may not see immediate results from hydroxychloroquine, but they should start noticing improvement within a few months. However, this answer choice is vague in terms of the duration to expect results, and it is not the best option when compared to Answer Choice A.

Analyze Answer Choice D

"I should take this medication on an empty stomach." Hydroxychloroquine can be taken with food or milk to avoid stomach upset. This answer choice is incorrect, as it does not demonstrate an understanding of the proper way to take the medication.

Choose the correct answer

Based on the analysis of each answer choice, Answer Choice A - "I should report any blurred vision or headache." - is the correct statement indicating that the client has understood the instructions given about hydroxychloroquine.