Proctored Pharmacology ATI Related

Review Proctored Pharmacology ATI related questions and content

A client with Parkinson's disease is prescribed levodopa/carbidopa (Sinemet). Which instruction should the nurse include?

  • A. Take this medication with a high-protein meal.'
  • B. Report dark urine immediately.'
  • C. Rise slowly to avoid dizziness.'
  • D. Stop the drug if you feel better.'
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Levodopa/carbidopa treats Parkinson's by increasing dopamine, but vasodilation risks orthostatic hypotension. Rising slowly prevents falls, a key instruction for safety. High-protein meals reduce levodopa absorption via amino acid competition, decreasing efficacy. Dark urine isn't a typical concern'harmless pigment changes occur. Stopping if feeling better risks symptom return, as it's not a cure. Rising slowly aligns with the drug's side effect profile, critical in Parkinson's where mobility is impaired, making C the essential teaching point to ensure client stability and adherence.