A nurse is administering codeine cough syrup to a patient for a dry cough. This medication is a Schedule V medication. Which of the following measures should the nurse take?

Correct Answer: D - Advise the patient that constipation is an adverse effect of the medication.

Rationale: Codeine, a Schedule V medication, is known to cause constipation as a common adverse effect due to its action on opioid receptors in the gut, leading to decreased bowel motility. By advising the patient about this potential side effect, the nurse can help the patient be aware and take preventive measures, such as increasing fiber intake or using stool softeners, to manage constipation.

Incorrect Choices:
A: Monitoring for addiction is not necessary for Schedule V medications like codeine, as they have a lower potential for abuse compared to higher scheduled medications.
B: Codeine does not help to thin out secretions; it is primarily used as a cough suppressant.
C: There is no known interaction between codeine and beets that would require the patient to minimize their intake.
E, F, G: Not applicable as the correct answer has been identified.