A client is scheduled to receive atenolol 25 mg PO and diltiazem 60 mg PO at 0800. The nurse assesses the client's heart rate as 45 beats/minute and irregular. What is the best nursing action at this time?

Choice A reason: I should continue to read the labels of foods I select at the grocery store is not a statement that indicates a need for further clarification by the nurse. This statement shows that the client understands the importance of choosing foods that are low in sodium, fat, and calories, which can help lower blood pressure and prevent complications.

Choice B reason: Keeping my blood pressure under control reduces my risk for a heart attack is not a statement that indicates a need for further clarification by the nurse. This statement shows that the client understands the benefits of pharmacologic therapy for hypertension, which can prevent or delay the development of cardiovascular disease.

Choice C reason: When I get out of bed in the morning, I should first sit for a few minutes and then stand is not a statement that indicates a need for further clarification by the nurse. This statement shows that the client understands how to prevent or minimize orthostatic hypotension, which is a possible side effect of some anti-hypertensive medications.

Choice D reason: I will be able to stop my anti-hypertensive medication when my blood pressure is normal is a statement that indicates a need for further clarification by the nurse. This statement shows that the client has a misconception about the nature and duration of pharmacologic therapy for hypertension. The nurse should explain that hypertension is a chronic condition that requires lifelong treatment and monitoring, and that stopping the medication abruptly can cause a rebound increase in blood pressure and increase the risk of complications.

Choice A reason: Placing the call bell in reach of the client is the most appropriate nursing action following the administration of metoprolol, a beta-blocker that lowers blood pressure and heart rate. ¹ The client may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting as side effects of the medication, especially after the first dose. ² The call bell allows the client to alert the nurse if they need assistance or experience any adverse reactions.

Choice B reason: Taking a pulse oximetry reading is not the most appropriate nursing action following the administration of metoprolol. Pulse oximetry measures the oxygen saturation of the blood, which is not directly affected by metoprolol. ³ A more relevant vital sign to monitor is the blood pressure and heart rate, which can indicate the effectiveness and safety of the medication.

Choice C reason: Recording the client's weight is not the most appropriate nursing action following the administration of metoprolol. Weight is not a sensitive indicator of the immediate effects of metoprolol. Weight may be monitored periodically to assess the client's fluid status and possible signs of heart failure, which metoprolol can help prevent. ¹ However, this is not a priority action after the first dose of the medication.

Choice D reason: Encouraging oral fluids is not the most appropriate nursing action following the administration of metoprolol. Oral fluids may help prevent dehydration and constipation, which can occur as side effects of metoprolol. ² However, excessive fluid intake may worsen the client's blood pressure and heart function, which metoprolol aims to improve. The nurse should advise the client to drink fluids as directed by the provider and report any signs of fluid overload, such as swelling, shortness of breath, or weight gain.