A patient with gout has been prescribed Allopurinol. Which of the following instructions should the nurse emphasize to the patient?

A. "Increase your fluid intake to 2–3 liters per day.": Increased fluid intake helps dilute uric acid levels and promotes renal excretion, reducing the risk of kidney stones—a common complication in patients taking allopurinol. Maintaining hydration is a key part of long-term gout management. B. "Discontinue the medication once symptoms improve.": Allopurinol is a maintenance medication meant to prevent gout flares by lowering uric acid levels over time. Stopping it when symptoms improve can lead to rebound hyperuricemia and recurrent attacks. C. "Double the dose if a dose is missed.": Doubling a missed dose can increase the risk of toxicity, including skin rash, liver dysfunction, and hypersensitivity reactions. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it's almost time for the next dose. D. "Take the medication only during acute gout attacks.": Allopurinol is not intended for acute gout relief; it can actually worsen or trigger flares when initiated during an attack. It is used for chronic urate-lowering therapy and should be taken consistently.