What should the nurse include in the education for a patient prescribed doxazosin?

Doxazosin is an alpha-1 adrenergic blocker that is primarily used to treat high blood pressure and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). One important aspect of patient education regarding this medication is the potential for orthostatic hypotension, which is a sudden drop in blood pressure when moving from a lying or sitting position to a standing position. Because doxazosin can cause blood vessels to relax and widen, it increases the risk of dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting when changing positions. Therefore, it is crucial for the patient to be advised to change positions slowly and carefully. This recommendation helps to minimize the risk of these symptoms and promotes safety.

While all the other options provide valuable information related to medication adherence and safety, the specific emphasis on making position changes slowly is particularly critical for patients taking doxazosin due to its effects on blood pressure regulation.