A client is receiving digoxin (Lanoxin) 0.25 mg. Daily. The health care provider has written a new order to give metoprolol (Lopressor) 25 mg. B.I.D. In assessing the client prior to administering the medications, which of the following should the nurse report immediately to the health care provider?
- A. Blood pressure 94/60
- B. Heart rate 76 BPM
- C. Urine output 50 ml/hour
- D. Respiratory rate 16
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Both medications decrease the heart rate. Metoprolol affects blood pressure. Therefore, the heart rate and blood pressure must be within normal range (HR 60-100 BPM; systolic B/P over 100) in order to safely administer both medications.
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While teaching the family of a child who will take phenytoin (Dilantin) regularly for seizure control, it is most important for the nurse to teach them about which of the following actions?
- A. Maintain good oral hygiene and dental care
- B. Omit medication if the child is seizure free
- C. Administer acetaminophen to promote sleep
- D. Serve a diet that is high in iron
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Swollen and tender gums occur often with use of phenytoin. Good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist should be emphasized.
The nurse observes a client using a walker. Which observation indicates that the client needs more instruction?
- A. The client uses the walker to pull herself out of a chair.
- B. The client moves the walker forward and then takes a step.
- C. The client complains that the walker is not waist high.
- D. The client sometimes does not use the walker.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Using the walker to pull up risks tipping, indicating improper use and a need for further instruction on safe walker technique.
The nurse is caring for a client who received albuterol 30 minutes ago for an acute exacerbation of asthma. It would indicate that the medication has been effective if the client experiences a decreased
- A. Use of accessory muscles
- B. Blood pressure
- C. Level of anxiety
- D. Heart rate
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Albuterol, a bronchodilator, relieves bronchospasm in asthma, reducing airway resistance. Decreased use of accessory muscles (A) indicates improved breathing and oxygenation, a direct sign of albuterol's effectiveness. Changes in blood pressure (B), anxiety (C), or heart rate (D) are not primary indicators of albuterol's effect, as they may be influenced by other factors like the stress of the attack or concurrent medications.
A client with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus gives birth to a newborn at term gestation. When caring for the 2 hour-old newborn, which clinical finding requires the nurse to intervene?
- A. Cyanosis of hands and feet
- B. Heart rate of 165/min while crying
- C. Jitteriness
- D. Respirations of 60/min
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Jitteriness (C) in a newborn of a diabetic mother suggests hypoglycemia, a common complication due to maternal hyperglycemia causing fetal hyperinsulinism. Immediate intervention (e.g., glucose testing) is needed. Acrocyanosis (A) is normal, heart rate 165/min while crying (B) is within range, and respirations of 60/min (D) are normal for a newborn.
A client is being discharged with plans to return home alone. The client cannot get up from a chair without help and is very unsteady when standing, even with a walker. The nurse expresses concern, but the primary health care provider is adamant that the client be discharged today. Which team member would be most appropriate to assist the nurse in advocating for this client?
- A. Clinical psychologist
- B. Occupational therapist
- C. Physical therapist
- D. Social worker
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The client’s mobility limitations and unsafe discharge plan require advocacy for alternative arrangements, such as home care or facility placement. A social worker (D) specializes in coordinating resources, assessing home safety, and advocating for patient needs, making them the best team member to assist. A psychologist (A) focuses on mental health, while occupational (B) and physical therapists (C) address functional skills but not discharge planning.
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