What instruction about medications should be emphasized for a client prescribed valsartan?

Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used primarily for the management of hypertension and heart failure. A significant consideration for patients taking valsartan is the potential effect of potassium levels in the body. Valsartan can lead to increased potassium levels, a condition known as hyperkalemia. Salt substitutes often contain potassium chloride, which can further elevate potassium levels when used with valsartan, increasing the risk of serious cardiovascular complications.

Therefore, emphasizing the need to avoid salt substitutes is crucial. Patients should be educated about the importance of monitoring their potassium intake and should be advised against the use of products that may increase potassium levels, including certain salt substitutes.

Other options do not directly relate to the specific considerations for a patient taking valsartan. For instance, instructions related to levofloxacin and sucralfate pertain to different therapeutic contexts and do not address the key potassium-related issue associated with valsartan therapy. Notifying a healthcare provider about urine turning red-orange is typically relevant to other medications, such as rifampin, but is not a concern with valsartan. Thus, the emphasis on avoiding salt substitutes addresses the direct patient safety concern when prescribed valsartan.