A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for benzonatate. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A rationale Benzonatate, a non-opioid antitussive, works peripherally by anesthetizing the stretch receptors in the respiratory passages, lungs, and pleura. This action reduces the cough reflex, it does not promote expectoration or help in coughing up mucus. Medications that help cough up mucus are called expectorants, and they work by thinning secretions. Choice B rationale Benzonatate is not known to affect dietary fiber intake. It is an antitussive medication whose primary purpose is to suppress the cough reflex. Its mechanism of action and side effect profile do not involve the gastrointestinal system in a way that necessitates a change in dietary fiber, which is important for bowel regularity. Choice C rationale Benzonatate capsules are designed to be swallowed whole. Chewing, crushing, or allowing them to dissolve in the mouth can lead to a risk of local anesthesia of the oropharynx, potentially causing numbness and choking. This is a critical safety instruction to prevent serious complications from the local anesthetic effects of the medication. Choice D rationale Benzonatate can cause central nervous system side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and sedation. These effects can impair a client's ability to operate machinery or drive safely. It is therefore crucial for clients to be aware of this potential side effect and to avoid driving or other hazardous activities until they know how the medication affects them.