What is the primary effect of a calcium channel blocker on the heart?
- A. Decreases heart rate
- B. Increases heart rate
- C. Increases blood pressure
- D. Decreases blood pressure
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The primary effect of a calcium channel blocker on the heart is to decrease blood pressure. Calcium channel blockers block the entry of calcium into the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels and the heart. This causes vasodilation and reduces the force of contraction in the heart, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. Choices A and B are incorrect as calcium channel blockers typically do not directly affect heart rate. Choice C is incorrect because calcium channel blockers actually tend to lower blood pressure rather than increase it.
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The nurse is caring for a client on amiodarone who complains of visual disturbances. What is the nurse's best response?
- A. Notify the healthcare provider immediately.
- B. Reassure the client that this is a common side effect.
- C. Advise the client to monitor their symptoms at home.
- D. Suggest the client reduce physical activity.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Notify the healthcare provider immediately. Visual disturbances can be a sign of serious side effects of amiodarone, such as optic neuropathy. Promptly notifying the healthcare provider allows for timely evaluation and appropriate management.
Choice B is incorrect because visual disturbances with amiodarone are not common and should not be dismissed as such. Choice C is incorrect as self-monitoring may delay necessary medical intervention. Choice D is also incorrect as reducing physical activity does not address the underlying cause of visual disturbances and may not be necessary.
Which of the following adverse effects should a nurse check for when administering lidocaine?
- A. Convulsions
- B. Amnesia
- C. Dyspnea
- D. Urinary retention
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Convulsions are a serious adverse effect of lidocaine toxicity, requiring vigilant monitoring.
The nurse is teaching a client about the side effects of beta blockers. What is the most important side effect to monitor?
- A. Hypotension
- B. Bradycardia
- C. Hyperkalemia
- D. Tachycardia
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypotension. Beta blockers can cause a decrease in blood pressure, leading to hypotension. Monitoring for hypotension is crucial as it can result in dizziness, fainting, or even shock. Bradycardia (choice B) is a common side effect but usually not as critical as hypotension. Hyperkalemia (choice C) is a potential side effect of some beta blockers but is less common and typically not as urgent as hypotension. Tachycardia (choice D) is the opposite of what beta blockers typically cause, making it an unlikely side effect to monitor for in this case.
The client on nitroglycerin complains of a headache. What is the most appropriate response by the nurse?
- A. Administer acetaminophen as prescribed for the headache.
- B. Hold the next dose of nitroglycerin.
- C. Discontinue the nitroglycerin immediately.
- D. Notify the healthcare provider immediately.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct response is to administer acetaminophen as prescribed for the headache. This is because headaches are a common side effect of nitroglycerin due to vasodilation. Acetaminophen can help relieve the headache without interfering with the therapeutic effects of nitroglycerin. Holding the next dose (B) is not appropriate as it can lead to inadequate treatment of the client's condition. Discontinuing nitroglycerin (C) abruptly can be dangerous as it may cause rebound hypertension. Notifying the healthcare provider (D) is not necessary unless the headache persists or worsens.
Which of the following structures of the heart is called the pacemaker of the heart?
- A. AV junction
- B. SA node
- C. AV node
- D. Purkinje fibers
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The sinoatrial (SA) node initiates and regulates the heartbeat, acting as the heart's natural pacemaker.