Question

a nurse is teaching a client who has a prescription for carbamazepine. which of the following instructions should the nurse include to help the client avoid adverse effects of this medication? begin taking the medication at a low dosage. discontinue the medication immediately if diarrhea occurs. have serum glucose levels checked regularly. take the medication on an empty stomach.

Explanation:

To determine the correct instruction for a client taking carbamazepine:

• Option 1 (Begin taking...low dosage): Carbamazepine is often started at a low dosage and titrated up to minimize adverse effects like dizziness, drowsiness, or hematologic issues. This is a standard practice for many medications with potential side effects.
• Option 2 (Discontinue...diarrhea): Abruptly discontinuing carbamazepine can cause withdrawal seizures or other serious reactions. Diarrhea alone is not a reason to stop immediately; the client should contact their provider.
• Option 3 (Have serum glucose...checked): Carbamazepine does not typically affect glucose levels. Monitoring glucose is not a standard recommendation for this medication.
• Option 4 (Take the medication...empty stomach): Carbamazepine is usually taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset, not on an empty stomach.

Answer:

A. Begin taking the medication at a low dosage.