A nurse is teaching a client who has been prescribed hydroxyzine (Vistaril) for anxiety and pruritus due to an allergic reaction. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
A.
“Avoid driving or operating machinery while taking this medication.”
B.
“Take this medication on an empty stomach to increase absorption.”
C.
“Drink plenty of fluids and suck on hard candy to prevent dry mouth.”
D.
“Report any signs of urinary retention or difficulty urinating.”
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. “Avoid driving or operating machinery while taking this medication.”
Explanation:
Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) is an antihistamine often prescribed to treat anxiety and to manage pruritus associated with allergic reactions. It has sedative properties, which can lead to drowsiness and impaired motor skills. Therefore, one of the most critical pieces of advice a nurse should provide is to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while on this medication. This precaution helps to prevent accidents and injuries that could occur due to decreased alertness.
B. “Take this medication on an empty stomach to increase absorption.” While hydroxyzine can be taken with or without food, it is not specifically required to be taken on an empty stomach to enhance absorption. Patients can take it with food if it helps to alleviate any potential gastrointestinal upset.
C. “Drink plenty of fluids and suck on hard candy to prevent dry mouth.” Hydroxyzine may cause dry mouth, but while it is beneficial to encourage fluid intake and the use of hard candies for comfort, this instruction is secondary to the more crucial safety measures related to drowsiness.
D. “Report any signs of urinary retention or difficulty urinating.” Although urinary retention can occur with antihistamines, this is less common and not a primary concern in patients taking hydroxyzine for anxiety or pruritus. While it’s good practice to monitor for any side effects, the immediate concern regarding safety (as in option A) takes precedence.
In summary, teaching clients about the sedative effects of hydroxyzine is crucial. By emphasizing the importance of avoiding activities that require full alertness, nurses help to ensure patient safety and adherence to prescribed treatments.