Question

The nurse continues to teach Alanna about the newly prescribed anticonvulsant medication.

Which instruction should the nurse include in the teaching session?
Options:

a) Decrease alcohol intake while taking this medication.
b) Take the medication with milk or milk products.
c) Notify the office if experiencing muscle uncoordination.
d) Avoid hazardous tasks until the drug has been regulated.

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct Alanna to decrease alcohol intake while taking the anticonvulsant medication. Alanna should also avoid hazardous tasks until the drug has been regulated. If Alanna experiences muscle uncoordination, she should notify the office.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should instruct Alanna to decrease alcohol intake while taking the newly prescribed anticonvulsant medication. Consuming alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of the medication and may worsen side effects. It is important to follow the prescribing doctor's instructions regarding alcohol consumption. In addition, the nurse should also inform Alanna about avoiding hazardous tasks until the drug has been regulated. The medication may cause drowsiness or dizziness, which can increase the risk of accidents or injuries.

However, taking the medication with milk or milk products is not necessary unless specifically instructed by the doctor. Some medications may interact with milk or dairy products, but this information would be included in the prescribing instructions. As for muscle uncoordination, while it is a potential side effect of anticonvulsant medication, it is important for Alanna to notify the office if she experiences this symptom so that appropriate measures can be taken.