The elderly patient is receiving chlorothiazide (Diuril). What does the best teaching by the nurse include with this medication?

Question

1. "Take the medication early in the morning."
2. "Avoid foods that are high in potassium."
3. "It is alright to have a glass of wine with this medication."
4. "Take the medication on an empty stomach."

Answer 1

1
Rationale 1: Elderly patients should take diuretics early in the morning to avoid nocturia.
Rationale 2: Chlorothiazide (Diuril) is a potassium-excreting drug, and foods high in potassium should be encouraged.
Rationale 3: Alcohol can potentiate the hypotensive effects of chlorothiazide (Diuril) and should be avoided, especially in the elderly.
Rationale 4: Absorption of chlorothiazide (Diuril) is decreased when taken on an empty stomach.
Global Rationale: Elderly patients should take diuretics early in the morning to avoid nocturia. Absorption of chlorothiazide (Diuril) is decreased when taken on an empty stomach. Chlorothiazide (Diuril) is a potassium-excreting drug, and foods high in potassium should be encouraged. Alcohol can potentiate the hypotensive effects of chlorothiazide (Diuril) and should be avoided, especially in the elderly.