A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has a new prescription for nifedipine. Which of the following statements should the nurse include?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. "Avoid consuming grapefruit juice while taking this medication.": Grapefruit juice inhibits the cytochrome P450 enzyme system in the liver, leading to increased serum levels of nifedipine. This can potentiate adverse effects such as hypotension, dizziness, and tachycardia. B. "Your magnesium level will be monitored while taking this medication.": Nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker, does not significantly affect magnesium levels. Monitoring magnesium is more relevant for clients receiving magnesium sulfate. C. "This medication can cause changes in thyroid function.": Nifedipine has no known effects on thyroid hormones or gland function. Drugs affecting thyroid function include amiodarone or lithium, not calcium channel blockers like nifedipine. D. "This medication can cause an increase in blood glucose levels.": Nifedipine does not alter glucose metabolism. Medications such as corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics are more likely to cause hyperglycemia, whereas nifedipine’s primary effects involve smooth muscle relaxation and vasodilation.