A client who receives multiple antihypertensive medications experiences syncope due to a drop in blood pressure to 70/40 mm Hg. Which is the rationale for the nurse's decision to hold the client's scheduled antihypertensive medications?
Increased urinary clearance of the multiple medications has produced diuresis and lowered the blood pressure.
The synergistic effect of the multiple medications has resulted in drug toxicity and hypotension.
The antagonistic interaction among the various blood pressure medications has reduced their effectiveness.
The additive effect of multiple medications has caused the blood pressure to drop too low.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Increased urinary clearance of the multiple medications is not the cause of the client's syncope. Diuresis is a common side effect of some antihypertensive medications, such as diuretics, but it does not lower the blood pressure to a dangerous level. The nurse should monitor the client's fluid and electrolyte balance and urine output, but it is not the priority action in this situation.
Choice B reason: The synergistic effect of the multiple medications is not the cause of the client's syncope. Synergism is when two or more drugs work together to produce a greater effect than the sum of their individual effects. This can be beneficial or harmful, depending on the drugs and the doses. The nurse should check the client's medication history and avoid prescribing drugs that have a negative synergistic effect, but it is not the most likely explanation for the client's hypotension.
Choice C reason: The antagonistic interaction among the various blood pressure medications is not the cause of the client's syncope. Antagonism is when two or more drugs work against each other to reduce or cancel out their effects. This can decrease the effectiveness of the treatment and increase the risk of complications. The nurse should check the client's medication history and avoid prescribing drugs that have a negative antagonistic effect, but it is not the most likely explanation for the client's hypotension.
Choice D reason: The additive effect of multiple medications is the most likely cause of the client's syncope. Additivity is when two or more drugs have a similar effect and their combined effect is equal to the sum of their individual effects. This can lower the blood pressure too much and cause symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, and shock. The nurse should hold the client's scheduled antihypertensive medications and notify the healthcare provider. The nurse should also monitor the client's vital signs, level of consciousness, and perfusion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: A basic metabolic panel is a blood test that measures the levels of electrolytes, glucose, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and calcium in the body. It can be used to assess the fluid balance, kidney function, and acid-base balance of the client. However, it does not provide information about the liver function, which is the most likely cause of the client's symptoms.
Choice B reason: A thyroid function test is a blood test that measures the levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone in the body. It can be used to diagnose thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, which can affect the metabolism, energy, and mood of the client. However, it does not provide information about the liver function, which is the most likely cause of the client's symptoms.
Choice C reason: A renal function panel is a blood test that measures the levels of creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and uric acid in the body. It can be used to assess the kidney function and the excretion of waste products from the body. However, it does not provide information about the liver function, which is the most likely cause of the client's symptoms.
Choice D reason: A liver function test is a blood test that measures the levels of enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin in the body. It can be used to assess the liver function and the production and metabolism of bile. Albendazole is a medication that can cause liver toxicity and hepatitis, which can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, dark urine, and jaundice. The nurse should review the liver function test to monitor the client's liver status and adjust the medication dose accordingly.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is not the action that the nurse should implement. Determining Glasgow Coma Scale score is a method of assessing the level of consciousness and neurological function of the client, but it is not a priority intervention in this situation. The client's respiratory rate and oxygen saturation are more critical indicators of the client's condition and the need for immediate action. The nurse should assess the Glasgow Coma Scale score as part of the ongoing evaluation, but it is not the first action.
Choice B reason: This is not the action that the nurse should implement. Initiating cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving procedure that is performed when the client has no pulse and no breathing, but it is not indicated in this situation. The client has a respiratory rate of 4 breaths/minute, which is very low, but not absent. The client also has an oxygen saturation of 75%, which is very low, but not incompatible with life. The nurse should provide oxygen therapy and ventilatory support to the client, but not CPR.
Choice C reason: This is not the action that the nurse should implement. Preparing to assist with chest tube insertion is a procedure that is done to drain air or fluid from the pleural space and restore lung expansion, but it is not relevant in this situation. The client's respiratory depression is caused by the opioid overdose, not by a pneumothorax or a pleural effusion. The nurse should monitor the client's chest x-ray and lung sounds, but not prepare for chest tube insertion.
Choice D reason: This is the action that the nurse should implement. Administering a second dose of naloxone is the most appropriate and effective intervention in this situation. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that reverses the effects of opioids, such as respiratory depression, sedation, and hypotension. However, naloxone has a shorter duration of action than most opioids, and it may require repeated doses to maintain the reversal. The nurse should administer a second dose of naloxone if the client's respiratory rate and oxygen saturation do not improve or worsen after the first dose. The nurse should also monitor the client for signs of opioid withdrawal, such as agitation, nausea, or pain.
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