The nurse is caring for an 80-year-old patient who has just begun taking a thiazide diuretic to treat hypertension. What is an important aspect of care for this patient?
a. Encouraging increased fluid intake
b. Increasing activity and exercise
c. Initiating a fall risk protocol
d. Providing a low potassium diet
ANS: C
Older patients experience a higher risk of orthostatic hypotension when taking antihypertensive medications. Fall risk also increases with a need for increased trips to the bathroom. A fall risk protocol should be implemented. Increasing fluids and activity and limiting potassium are not indicated.
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A) Flush the wound site with chlorhexidine. B) Report to the emergency department or employee health department. C) Apply a hydrocolloid dressing to the wound site. D) Follow up with the nurse's primary care provider.
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