A client is in the cardiovascular clinic for a 3-month follow-up visit. At the first visit, the client was prescribed hydrochlorothiazide and amlodipine for hypertension. Which statement by the client would be concerning to the nurse and should be reported to the primary health care provider (PHCP)?

Question

A client is in the cardiovascular clinic for a 3-month follow-up visit.  At the first visit, the client was prescribed hydrochlorothiazide and amlodipine for hypertension.  Which statement by the client would be concerning to the nurse and should be reported to the primary health care provider (PHCP)?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Licorice root is an herbal remedy sometimes used for gastrointestinal disorders such as stomach ulcers, heartburn, colitis, and chronic gastritis. Clients with heart disease or hypertension should be cautious about using licorice root. When used in combination with a diuretic such as hydrochlorothiazide, it can increase potassium loss, leading to hypokalemia. Hypokalemia can cause dangerous cardiac dysrhythmias. Thiazide diuretics are considered "potassium-wasting" diuretics, so this client is already at risk for hypokalemia. The addition of licorice root could potentiate the potassium loss. The nurse should discourage the client from using this herbal remedy and report the client's use to the PHCP. (Option A) Bananas are rich in potassium. Eating one each morning is beneficial. (Option B) Diuretics and calcium channel blockers (eg, nifedipine, amlodipine, felodipine) commonly cause postural hypotension or dizziness on rising. The nurse should encourage the client to rise slowly and sit on the side of the bed for a few minutes before getting up. Persistent dizziness should be reported to the PHCP. (Option D) Diuretics should be taken in the morning as nighttime dosing will cause nocturia and interrupted sleep. Educational objective: The nurse should discourage the client from using the herbal remedy licorice root when taking thiazide diuretics. Licorice root can potentiate potassium loss and increase the client's risk for hypokalemia. Use of licorice root should be reported to the PCHP.

A Client Is in the Cardiovascular Clinic for a 3-Month