A client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil). The nurse should caution the client to:

Question

1. report blurred vision or decreased reading ability immediately.
2. continue taking a glass of red wine before dinner to reduce cardiovascular risk.
3. take this drug with an antacid to decrease stomach distress.
4. expose skin to sunlight for at least 20 minutes every day to help with bone formation.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: Blindness can result from retinal damage and is the most serious adverse effect of this medication. Clients should report any indications of visual problems.
Rationale 2: Clients taking hydroxychloroquine should limit or avoid alcohol to reduce the risk of liver damage.
Rationale 3: The client should take antacids only with the approval of the health care practitioner.
Rationale 4: This medication is not used for bone formation.
Global Rationale: Blindness can result from retinal damage and is the most serious adverse effect of this medication. Clients should report any indications of visual problems. Clients taking hydroxychloroquine should limit or avoid alcohol to reduce the risk of liver damage. The client should take antacids only with the approval of the health care practitioner. This medication is not used for bone formation.