A nurse is caring for a client who has benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and a new prescription for doxazosin IR. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take first?

Choice A rationale Limiting caffeine is not the first action the nurse should take. While caffeine can exacerbate symptoms of BPH, it is not the priority action when starting doxazosin IR3. Choice B rationale Reporting headaches is important, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. Headaches can be a side effect of doxazosin, but monitoring the patient’s initial response to the medication is more critical. Choice C rationale Measuring the client’s intake and output is important for monitoring urinary symptoms, but it is not the first action the nurse should take when starting doxazosin IR3. Choice D rationale Administering the medication at bedtime is the correct first action. Doxazosin can cause dizziness and hypotension, especially after the first dose, so taking it at bedtime can help minimize these effects.