An 86-Year-Old Patient Lives Alone and Is on a Fixed

question 18

Multiple Choice

An 86-year-old patient lives alone and is on a fixed income. The patient is taking once-daily doses of metoprolol (Lopressor) and furosemide (Lasix) to control BP. The patient is able to tell the nurse the names of the medications and when they are to be taken but does not always take the medications regularly, so BP is not well controlled. The most appropriate action by the nurse will be to

• A) discuss the patient's possible confusion with a family member.
• B) ask the patient about whether the cost of the medications is too high.
• C) offer the patient teaching about long-term effects of hypertension.
• D) assist the patient with an easier dosing schedule to improve compliance.

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Definitions:

Urethral Meatus

The external opening of the urethra, through which urine exits the body from the urinary bladder.

Perineum

The area between the anus and the genitals, both in males and females, that contains various muscles and tissues.

Lithotomy

A medical position in which a person lies on their back with the hips and knees flexed and the legs apart and raised, often used during childbirth or certain medical procedures.