A client in the emergency department reports extreme dry mouth, constipation, and an inability to void. The client's history includes incontinence. Which question by the nurse is most impor-tant?
a. "Are you drinking plenty of water?"
b. "Do you take anticholinergic medication?"
c. "Have you tried laxatives or enemas?"
d. "Has this type of thing ever happened be-fore?"
B
Some types of incontinence are treated with anticholinergic medications such as propantheline (Pro-Banthine). Anticholinergic side effects include dry mouth, constipation, and urinary reten-tion. The nurse needs to know whether the client is on this type of medication because the client's symptoms can be a manifestation of a simple side effect or an overdose. The other ques-tions are not as helpful.
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