A nurse is preparing to educate a group of clients in the cardiac step-down unit about antiarrhythmic medications. Which of the following statements is true about antiarrhythmics? (Select all that apply.)

Question

a. If you skip a dose, you can double up on the next dose.
b. Rise slowly from the reclining position.
c. Avoid taking any other medication, including OTC medicines, unless approved by the physician.
d. Side effects such as palpitations and faintness are expected and should ignored.
e. Take the medication on an empty stomach to enhance absorption.

Answer 1

b. Rise slowly from the reclining position.
c. Avoid taking any other medication, including OTC medicines, unless approved by the physician.
e. Take the medication on an empty stomach to enhance absorption.

FEEDBACK:
a. Take proper dosage of medication on time, as prescribed, without skipping any doses. If the client forgets to take the medication, the client cannot double the dose.
b. Education about antiarrhythmic agents should include instructions to rise slowly from the reclining position. .
c. Education about antiarrhythmic agents should include instructions to avoid taking any other medication, including OTC medicines, unless approved by the physician. .
d. Education about antiarrhythmic agents should include instructions to report adverse side effects such as palpitations and faintness immediately. .
e. Antiarrhythmic medication should be taken on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals with a full glass of water.