A client with a history of heart failure is prescribed metoprolol (Lopressor). The nurse should monitor the client for which common side effect of this medication?
- A. Tachycardia
- B. Hypotension
- C. Hypertension
- D. Hyperglycemia
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Metoprolol is a beta-blocker commonly used in heart failure to reduce blood pressure. One of the common side effects of metoprolol is hypotension, which can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting. Therefore, monitoring for hypotension is essential to prevent adverse effects and ensure patient safety.
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A client who had a myocardial infarction (MI) two days ago reports chest pain radiating to the left arm. What should the nurse do immediately?
- A. Administer morphine
- B. Obtain an electrocardiogram (ECG)
- C. Apply oxygen via nasal cannula
- D. Administer sublingual nitroglycerin
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Obtaining an ECG is crucial in this situation because it helps in assessing for potential complications, such as a recurrent MI or ongoing ischemia. This diagnostic test provides valuable information to guide further interventions and treatment. Administering morphine, oxygen, or nitroglycerin may be necessary but obtaining an ECG takes precedence to evaluate the cardiac status and determine the appropriate course of action.
A client with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is prescribed warfarin (Coumadin). The nurse should include which instruction in the discharge teaching?
- A. Take the medication at the same time each day
- B. Avoid green leafy vegetables in your diet
- C. Increase your intake of vitamin K-rich foods
- D. Stop the medication if you notice any bruising
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Taking warfarin at the same time each day is crucial to maintain consistent blood levels and ensure the effectiveness of the medication in preventing clot formation. Consistent timing helps in monitoring and adjusting the dosage as needed to keep the international normalized ratio (INR) within the therapeutic range to prevent clotting events or excessive bleeding.
The healthcare provider is reviewing the medication orders for a client with angina pectoris. Which medication is typically prescribed to prevent angina attacks?
- A. Aspirin
- B. Nitroglycerin
- C. Atenolol
- D. Simvastatin
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Nitroglycerin is the medication typically prescribed to prevent angina attacks. It works by dilating blood vessels, increasing blood flow, and reducing the heart's workload, hence relieving angina symptoms. Aspirin is often used to prevent blood clots, Atenolol is a beta-blocker used to manage high blood pressure and chest pain, and Simvastatin is a statin medication primarily used to lower cholesterol levels.
The client has angina pectoris and is prescribed nitroglycerin patches. What instruction should the nurse provide to the client?
- A. Apply the patch to the chest and leave it in place for 24 hours
- B. Apply the patch to a different site each time to prevent skin irritation
- C. Remove the patch before going to bed to prevent tolerance
- D. Cut the patch in half if experiencing headaches
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.
A client with a diagnosis of angina pectoris is prescribed nitroglycerin tablets. How should the nurse instruct the client to take the medication?
- A. Swallow the tablet whole with water
- B. Place the tablet under the tongue and let it dissolve
- C. Chew the tablet and then swallow
- D. Place the tablet between the cheek and gum
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Nitroglycerin is most effective when administered sublingually (under the tongue) as it is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream. Placing the tablet under the tongue allows for quick absorption and faster relief of angina symptoms. Chewing the tablet, swallowing it, or placing it between the cheek and gum would not provide the same rapid onset of action needed during an angina episode.