A client has been prescribed diltiazem (Cardizem) and asks the nurse what type of drug this is. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
- A. "A beta blocker."
- B. "A sodium channel blocker."
- C. "An alpha blocker."
- D. "A calcium channel blocker."
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Diltiazem (Cardizem) belongs to the class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers. These medications work by blocking calcium from entering the muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels, leading to relaxation of the blood vessels and reduced workload on the heart. This helps in lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow. It is crucial for the nurse to provide accurate information to the client about the type of drug prescribed to ensure understanding and compliance with the treatment plan.
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Which part of the body requires a continuous supply of oxygen and vital nutrients to support life and death?
- A. Liver
- B. Kidneys
- C. Brain
- D. Muscles
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The brain requires a continuous supply of oxygen and vital nutrients to support life and prevent death. Oxygen and nutrients are essential for brain function, and any interruption in the supply can lead to serious consequences, including brain damage or death. Therefore, ensuring a constant flow of oxygen and nutrients to the brain is vital for survival and overall health.
The healthcare professional is preparing to administer atenolol (Tenormin) to a client with angina. Which vital sign would cause the healthcare professional to question administering this drug?
- A. Respirations 12 breaths per minute
- B. Pulse 52 beats per minute
- C. Blood pressure 134/72
- D. Oxygen saturation 95%
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Atenolol is a beta-blocker medication that can lower heart rate. A pulse of 52 beats per minute is relatively low and administering atenolol could further decrease the heart rate, potentially leading to bradycardia. Monitoring the pulse rate and holding the medication if the pulse is below the prescribed parameters is crucial to prevent adverse effects such as bradycardia and hypotension.
The client with angina is being discharged to home. The nurse is instructing the client on dietary changes. What should be included in this teaching?
- A. Decrease salt and fat intake and limit alcohol intake.
- B. There are no dietary restrictions for a person diagnosed with angina.
- C. Limit smoking and increase protein and sugar intake.
- D. Increase fruits, vegetables, and foods high in cholesterol.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to decrease salt and fat intake and limit alcohol intake. These dietary changes can help manage angina by reducing the workload on the heart and preventing further plaque buildup in the arteries. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as dietary restrictions for angina typically involve reducing salt, fat, and alcohol intake, rather than increasing sugar or cholesterol intake.
Why has an ACE inhibitor been prescribed following an MI?
- A. "This medication will lower your potassium level."
- B. "ACE inhibitors have been found to reduce mortality following MI."
- C. "ACE inhibitors are always prescribed with a beta blocker and calcium channel blocker following an MI."
- D. "This medication will treat your hypotension."
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Following a myocardial infarction (MI), ACE inhibitors are commonly prescribed due to their proven benefit in reducing mortality and improving outcomes post-MI. These medications help by decreasing the workload of the heart, preventing remodeling of the heart chambers, and improving survival rates. While ACE inhibitors may have effects on potassium levels, the primary reason for their prescription post-MI is their mortality-reducing properties.
A client taking nitroglycerin (Nitrostat) complains of a headache. Which conclusion is most appropriate by the nurse?
- A. A headache indicates a serious allergic reaction to nitroglycerin.
- B. The client will not have a headache if the nitroglycerin is taken with a high-fat meal.
- C. Nitroglycerin does not cause a headache.
- D. The most common side effect of nitroglycerin is a headache.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Nitroglycerin is known to cause headaches as a common side effect due to its vasodilatory properties. It dilates blood vessels, which can lead to headaches. While a headache can indicate other serious conditions, the most common association with nitroglycerin use is a headache. It is crucial for the nurse to recognize this side effect and provide appropriate education and support to the client.