The nurse has instructed the client to begin taking oral contraceptives on day 5 of her ovarian cycle and to continue for 21 days. During the other 7 days of the month, the client will take a placebo....

The nurse has instructed the client to begin taking oral contraceptives on day 5 of her ovarian cycle and to continue for 21 days. During the other 7 days of the month, the client will take a placebo. The nurse knows that the placebo:

1. Contains vitamins and minerals needed for good health.

2. Consists of elements necessary for the other pills to work.

3. Replaces the need for folic acid lost during menstrual bleeding.

4. Encourages the adherence of taking the pill on a daily basis.