Diltiazem (Cardizem) is ordered for a patient with newly diagnosed Prinzmetal’s (variant) angina. When teaching the patient, the nurse will include the information that diltiazem will
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: decrease coronary artery spasms. Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker that helps to relax and dilate coronary arteries, reducing the frequency and severity of coronary artery spasms in Prinzmetal's angina. This action improves blood flow to the heart muscle, relieving chest pain.
A: reduce heart palpitations - Diltiazem may cause bradycardia (slow heart rate) but is not primarily used to reduce heart palpitations.
B: prevent coronary artery plaque - Diltiazem does not prevent the formation of coronary artery plaque.
D: increase contractile force of the heart - Diltiazem actually decreases the contractile force of the heart by reducing cardiac workload and oxygen demand.
Nokea