Question

a nurse is preparing to administer hydrochlorothiazide (hctz) to a client. which of the following actions should the nurse take prior to administering the medication?

ask the client to drink 8 oz of water.
review the clients most recent hgb level.
obtain the clients blood pressure.
determine if the client is allergic to nsaids.

Explanation:

Identify drug classification

Using the Thiazide Diuretics knowledge point

• Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a thiazide diuretic primarily used to treat hypertension and edema.

Determine physiological effects

Using the Thiazide Diuretics knowledge point

• Diuretics increase urine output, reducing blood volume and lowering blood pressure.

Evaluate nursing actions

Using the Thiazide Diuretics knowledge point

• Prior to administering any antihypertensive or blood pressure-lowering medication, the nurse must assess the client's blood pressure to prevent severe hypotension.

Analyze incorrect options

Using the Thiazide Diuretics knowledge point

• Fluid intake restriction or monitoring is common, but drinking 8 oz of water is not a standard pre-administration requirement.
• Hemoglobin (Hgb) levels are not directly affected by HCTZ administration.
• HCTZ contains a sulfonamide group, so checking for sulfa allergies is relevant, but it does not have a cross-sensitivity with NSAIDs.

Answer:

• Ask the client to drink 8 oz of water.
• Review the client's most recent Hgb level.
• Obtain the client's blood pressure. (Correct answer)
• Determine if the client is allergic to NSAIDs.