A client with a history of angina reports the onset of chest pain. The nurse determines that the heart rate is 104 beats/minute and the blood pressure is 138/86 mm Hg. A transdermal nitroglycerin patch was applied 30 minutes ago to the right upper chest. Which action should the nurse take?
Obtain another transdermal patch and position it on the client’s left upper chest.
Withhold further doses of nitroglycerin until contacting the healthcare provider.
Leave the patch in place and administer a PRN dose of sublingual nitroglycerin.
Reassure the client that the patch will begin to take effect within a few minutes.
The Correct Answer is C
A) Applying another transdermal patch is not recommended without healthcare provider approval. Doubling the dose of nitroglycerin could increase the risk of hypotension and other adverse effects.
B) Withholding further doses of nitroglycerin without healthcare provider guidance may lead to inadequate control of angina symptoms. However, in this scenario, the client has already received a dose of transdermal nitroglycerin, so withholding further doses may not be appropriate if the client’s symptoms persist.
C) Leaving the patch in place and administering a sublingual dose of nitroglycerin is the correct action in this situation. Sublingual nitroglycerin provides rapid relief of angina symptoms by dilating blood vessels and improving myocardial oxygen supply. The transdermal patch may not have reached therapeutic levels yet, but the sublingual form can provide more immediate relief.
D) While it’s important to reassure the client, especially during an episode of chest pain, relying solely on the transdermal patch to take effect may not provide timely relief. Administering sublingual nitroglycerin allows for faster absorption and symptom relief.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Hold the dose and notify the pharmacy to stop dispensing the next premixed doses: This action may prevent further administration of fluconazole, but it does not address the underlying concern of rising liver enzyme levels. Holding the dose and notifying the healthcare provider directly would be more appropriate.
B) Hold the dose and notify the healthcare provider of the changes in the laboratory studies: This is the correct response. RisIng liver enzyme levels, indIcated by an increasing trend in aspartate aminotransferase (AST), suggest potential liver dysfunction or damage, which can be a serious adverse effect of fluconazole. The nurse should hold the dose and promptly inform the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
C) Begin the infusion and monitor the client's bl’od urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine, and liver function tests: Initiating the infusion without addressing the rising liver enzyme levels could potentially worsen liver function. It is essential to hold the dose and inform the healthcare provider before proceeding with further administration.
D) Begin the infusion and submit a drug reaction report to the nursing supervisor: While it's im’ortant to document adverse reactions and submit reports as appropriate, the priority in this situation is to hold the dose and notify the healthcare provider to address the rising liver enzyme levels.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Remove the patch and consult with the healthcare provider about the client’s pain resolution: While it’s essential to assess the need for continued pain management, removing the patch without replacing it could lead to inadequate pain control, especially if the client still requires opioid analgesia. Additionally, fentanyl patches are typically left in place for their prescribed duration, and removing them prematurely could disrupt the pain management plan.
B) Place the patch on the client's sh’ulder and leave both patches in place for 12 hours: Applying a new patch without removing the previous one could result in a higher-than-intended dose of fentanyl, increasing the risk of opioid toxicity. Leaving both patches in place simultaneously is not recommended.
C) Apply the new patch in a different location after removing the original patch: This is the correct action. Applying the new patch in a different location helps prevent skin irritation and ensures consistent drug absorption. Rotating patch sites according to the manufacturer's in’tructions is important for optimal medication delivery.
D) Administer an oral analgesic and evaluate its effectiveness before applying the new patch: While oral analgesics may provide temporary relief, they may not be as effective as transdermal fentanyl for managing chronic pain, especially if the client has been on a stable regimen of fentanyl patches. Additionally, delaying the application of the new patch could lead to inadequate pain control.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.