Critical Care Nursing Cardiac Questions Related

Review Critical Care Nursing Cardiac Questions related questions and content

A client who is taking clonidine (Catapres, Duraclon) reports drowsiness. Which additional assessment should the nurse make?

  • A. Has the client experienced constipation recently?
  • B. Did the client miss any doses of the medication?
  • C. How long has the client been taking the medication?
  • D. Does the client use any tobacco products?
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Assessing how long the client has been taking clonidine is crucial as drowsiness is a common side effect that typically improves over time as the body adjusts to the medication. This information helps determine if the drowsiness is a temporary side effect or a more concerning issue.

Choice A (constipation) is not directly related to drowsiness as a side effect of clonidine. Choice B (missed doses) may contribute to drowsiness but is not the primary assessment priority. Choice D (tobacco use) is not directly related to clonidine-induced drowsiness.