What should a nurse inform a patient taking lisinopril about the medication?

The correct information for a patient taking lisinopril is that they must have their potassium monitored from time to time. Lisinopril is an ACE (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme) inhibitor used primarily for managing hypertension and heart failure. One of the significant side effects of this medication is hyperkalemia, or elevated potassium levels, which can lead to serious cardiac issues. Therefore, regular monitoring of potassium levels is essential to ensure the patient's safety and to adjust the dose or even change the medication if necessary.

While it's important for patients to know that blood pressure may take some time to stabilize, the monitoring of potassium is a critical aspect of treatment with lisinopril that directly impacts the patient's health. Monitoring helps in minimizing the risk of hyperkalemia and ensuring that the medication is effectively and safely managing the patient's condition. The other choices do not reflect key aspects of the medication's management and effects on the body, making them less relevant for the patient to be informed about in the context of taking lisinopril.