Dr. G., a 62-year-old university professor, has been diagnosed with primary hypertension and will be taking 50 mg of hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) daily. There is no evidence of renal insufficiency or...

Dr. G., a 62-year-old university professor, has been diagnosed with primary hypertension and will be taking 50 mg of hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) daily. There is no evidence of renal insufficiency or cardiac damage at this time, nor is there evidence of retinopathy or other signs and symptoms of end-organ disease. She is anxious because the fall semester is starting and she has a heavy teaching load but is willing to take the steps needed for better health. At her 1-month follow-up appointment, Dr. G. complains of “feeling so tired” and asks whether the medication causes sleepiness. When questioned, she says that she takes the HCTZ at dinnertime because she is afraid it will “interfere with her classes.” 1. What do you suspect is happening with Dr. G., and what would you recommend? 2. During this follow-up appointment, you ask Dr. G. if she is eating foods high in potassium. She looks embarrassed and answers, “I lost that pamphlet about the foods with potassium, but I try to drink orange juice every day.” What foods should she eat for the potassium content? 3. The report on Dr. G.’s potassium levels comes back from the laboratory, and the results are 3.4 mEq/L. She asks, “Am I going to be put on a potassium pill too?” What is your answer? 4. Six months later, Dr. G. is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus and is started on oral hypoglycemic therapy. What will you teach her about managing her diabetes while taking the HCTZ?