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 While limiting caffeine is a helpful lifestyle modification for clients with benign prostatic hyperplasia to reduce urinary frequency and urgency, it is not the nurse's first priority after a new prescription for doxazosin IR. The immediate priority is to address the safety risks associated with the medication's primary side effects, particularly orthostatic hypotension, which is most likely to occur after the first dose. Choice B rationale Headache is a common side effect of doxazosin, an alpha-1 adrenergic blocker, due to vasodilation. While the client should be instructed to report a persistent or severe headache, it is not the most life-threatening or immediate concern. The most critical action is to prevent the client from experiencing a sudden drop in blood pressure and potential fall when standing. Choice C rationale Measuring intake and output is an important ongoing assessment for clients with BPH to monitor urinary function and retention. However, it is not the first action the nurse should take in response to a new prescription for doxazosin. The initial priority is to implement a safety measure to mitigate the risk of adverse effects from the medication itself. Choice D rationale Doxazosin IR is an alpha-1 adrenergic blocker that causes vasodilation, which can lead to a significant drop in blood pressure, especially with the initial dose. This orthostatic hypotension is most pronounced when the client stands up. Administering the medication at bedtime minimizes the risk of falls and injury by having the client in a recumbent position during the peak effect of the drug.