Question

A client has just been given a prescription for diphenoxylate with atropine. The nurse determines that the client understands important information about this medication if the client makes what statement?

Option 1: "It's best to take this medication with a laxative."
Option 2: "This medication contains a habit-forming ingredient."
Option 3: "I might drool frequently from taking this medication."
Option 4: "I will probably become irritable from taking this medication."

Answer 1

The client demonstrates understanding of the prescription for diphenoxylate with atropine if they acknowledge that the medication can be habit-forming due to diphenoxylate's opioid properties.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse can conclude that the client understands important information about the medication diphenoxylate with atropine if the client states: "This medication contains a habit-forming ingredient." Diphenoxylate is an opioid that can be addictive if not used as prescribed. Atropine, on the other hand, is an anticholinergic drug that can lead to anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth, not increased salivation (Option 3) or irritability (Option 4). The combination of these two drugs works together to decrease the activity of the gut to treat severe diarrhea, and it would not be best to take this medication with a laxative (Option 1) as it counteracts the intended effect. While atropine does block muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, leading to various systemic effects, it should not typically cause the client to drool or become irritable.