Question

the nurse is teaching a 61-year-old client about the opioid antitussive syrup that the health care provider has prescribed. which client statement suggests understanding of what the nurse has taught?

\if my cough doesnt improve right away, ill increase my dose.\
\if this medicine works, i shouldnt cough at all.\
\this medication might cause drowsiness, so i will avoid driving while i use it.\
\i should take this medicine followed by a glass of water.\

Explanation:

Analyze the medication and its side effects

The question asks about an opioid antitussive syrup (such as codeine or hydrocodone). Opioids act on the central nervous system to suppress the cough reflex. A major side effect of central nervous system depressants is sedation, dizziness, and drowsiness. Therefore, safety precautions regarding activities requiring alertness, such as driving, are paramount. This directly relates to Patient Safety Education.

Evaluate the first option

"If my cough doesn't improve right away, I'll increase my dose."
Increasing the dose of an opioid medication without consulting a healthcare provider is dangerous due to the risk of respiratory depression, addiction, and overdose. This statement shows a lack of understanding.

Evaluate the second option

"If this medicine works, I shouldn't cough at all."
Antitussives are meant to reduce excessive, nonproductive coughing to allow rest, but they do not completely eliminate the cough reflex, which is a protective mechanism to clear the airways. This statement shows a lack of understanding.

Evaluate the third option

"This medication might cause drowsiness, so I will avoid driving while I use it."
Since opioid antitussives cause central nervous system depression, drowsiness is a common and expected side effect. Avoiding driving or operating heavy machinery is a crucial safety measure. This statement demonstrates correct understanding.

Evaluate the fourth option

"I should take this medicine followed by a glass of water."
For antitussive syrups, clients are typically advised not to drink liquids immediately after taking the syrup so that the medication can coat the throat and soothe local irritation. This statement shows a lack of understanding.

Answer:

• (A) "If my cough doesn't improve right away, I'll increase my dose."
• (B) "If this medicine works, I shouldn't cough at all."
• (C) "This medication might cause drowsiness, so I will avoid driving while I use it." (Correct answer)
• (D) "I should take this medicine followed by a glass of water."