Dr. Kennedy prescribes glipizide (Glucotrol), an oral antidiabetic agent, for a male client with type 2 diabetes mellitus who has been having trouble controlling the blood glucose level through diet and exercise

Dr. Kennedy prescribes glipizide (Glucotrol), an oral antidiabetic agent, for a male client with type 2 diabetes mellitus who has been having trouble controlling the blood glucose level through diet and exercise.

Which medication instruction should the nurse provide?

• a. “Be sure to take glipizide 30 minutes before meals.”
• b. “Glipizide may cause a low serum sodium level, so make sure you have your sodium level checked monthly.”
• c. “You won’t need to check your blood glucose level after you start taking glipizide.”
• d. “Take glipizide after a meal to prevent heartburn.”

Answer A.

The client should take glipizide twice a day, 30 minutes before a meal, because food decreases its absorption. The drug doesn’t cause hyponatremia and therefore doesn’t necessitate monthly serum sodium measurement. The client must continue to monitor the blood glucose level during glipizide therapy.

The most appropriate medication instruction for the nurse to provide the client is: a. "Be sure to take glipizide 30 minutes before meals."

Here's why:

- Timing:

Glipizide is a short-acting sulfonylurea that works by stimulating the pancreas to release insulin. Taking it 30 minutes before meals allows it to start working before blood sugar levels rise after eating, leading to optimal blood sugar control.

Other options:

b. Glipizide may cause a low serum sodium level:

While this is a potential side effect, routine monthly sodium checks without any specific symptoms are not standard protocol. Monitoring for electrolyte imbalances should be based on individual needs and potential risk factors.

c. You won't need to check your blood glucose level:

Regular blood sugar monitoring is crucial for all individuals with diabetes, especially when initiating a new medication like glipizide. This allows for dose adjustments and monitoring of treatment effectiveness.

d. Take glipizide after a meal to prevent heartburn:

While some medications can be taken after meals to reduce heartburn, glipizide's timing is primarily determined by its mechanism of action and optimal effect on blood sugar. Taking it after meals might delay its action and reduce its effectiveness.

Therefore, based on the specific medication and its desired effect, instructing the client to take glipizide 30 minutes before meals is the most relevant and helpful advice.

Remember:

providing accurate and appropriate medication instructions is essential for patient safety and optimal treatment outcomes. Always consult reliable sources and clinical guidelines to ensure correct information is communicated to patients.