The LPN/LVN is assisting in the care of a client with a diagnosis of heart failure who is receiving digoxin (Lanoxin). Which laboratory result should the nurse monitor closely?
- A. Serum sodium
- B. Serum potassium
- C. Serum calcium
- D. Serum glucose
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is serum potassium. Monitoring serum potassium levels is crucial when a client is receiving digoxin (Lanoxin) because low potassium levels can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. Digoxin and low potassium levels can lead to serious cardiac complications, such as arrhythmias. Therefore, close monitoring of serum potassium is essential to prevent adverse effects and ensure the safe administration of digoxin in clients with heart failure.
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A client with a diagnosis of angina pectoris is prescribed nitroglycerin. The nurse should teach the client to take the medication in which way?
- A. Take one tablet daily with breakfast
- B. Take one tablet every 5 minutes as needed, up to three times
- C. Take one tablet every hour until pain subsides
- D. Take one tablet only if pain does not subside after 30 minutes
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Nitroglycerin is a rapid-acting medication used to relieve angina pain by dilating blood vessels. The correct administration is to take one tablet every 5 minutes as needed, up to three doses. If chest pain persists after three doses, the client should seek emergency medical attention as it can indicate a more serious cardiac issue.
The client with a history of coronary artery disease (CAD) is scheduled for a stress test. What instruction should the nurse provide to the client before the test?
- A. Continue taking your usual dose of beta-blockers
- B. Refrain from eating or drinking anything for 4 hours before the test
- C. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and walking shoes
- D. Avoid any physical activity for 24 hours before the test
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct instruction for the client before a stress test is to wear loose, comfortable clothing, and walking shoes. This is crucial as the stress test involves physical exercise, and the client should be prepared for the activity involved. Beta-blockers may need to be adjusted or held before the test as per healthcare provider's instructions. Fasting before the test is not typically required, and avoiding physical activity for 24 hours beforehand is not necessary and may interfere with the accuracy of the test results.
The nurse is teaching a client about lifestyle changes to manage hypertension. Which dietary change should the nurse recommend?
- A. Increase intake of red meat
- B. Use salt substitutes liberally
- C. Limit sodium intake to 2 grams per day
- D. Increase intake of processed foods
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.
The nurse is caring for a client with coronary artery disease (CAD) who reports chest pain. The nurse administers nitroglycerin as prescribed. What is the next priority action?
- A. Obtain a 12-lead ECG
- B. Monitor the client's blood pressure
- C. Notify the healthcare provider
- D. Administer a second dose of nitroglycerin
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.
A client with heart failure is prescribed furosemide (Lasix). The nurse should monitor the client for which potential electrolyte imbalance?
- A. Hyperkalemia
- B. Hypernatremia
- C. Hypokalemia
- D. Hypocalcemia
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: When a client with heart failure is prescribed furosemide, the nurse should monitor for hypokalemia. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to potassium loss, which increases the risk of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia can have serious implications such as cardiac dysrhythmias. Therefore, it is essential to closely monitor the client's serum potassium levels while on furosemide to prevent complications.