A client with primary hypertension reports dizziness with ambulation when taking the prescribed alpha-adrenergic blocker. When teaching this client, what should the nurse emphasize?
Increasing fluids to maintain BP
Taking medication first thing in the morning
Stopping medication if dizziness persists
Rising slowly from a lying or sitting position
The Correct Answer is D
A. Increasing fluids to maintain BP: While staying well-hydrated is generally beneficial for overall health and blood pressure management, increasing fluids is not the primary intervention for dizziness associated with alpha-adrenergic blockers. Alpha-blockers can cause orthostatic hypotension, which may lead to dizziness upon standing, especially if rising quickly.
B. Taking medication first thing in the morning: Taking medication in the morning is a common recommendation for many medications, including some antihypertensive drugs. However, for alpha-adrenergic blockers that can cause orthostatic hypotension, timing of medication administration is not the primary concern in addressing dizziness.
C. Stopping medication if dizziness persists: Abruptly stopping medication without consulting a healthcare provider is not recommended, especially for antihypertensive medications. It's important for clients to follow their prescribed treatment plan and communicate any side effects or concerns to their healthcare provider for appropriate management.
D. Rising slowly from a lying or sitting position: This is the correct emphasis for the nurse. Alpha-adrenergic blockers can cause orthostatic hypotension, a drop in blood pressure upon standing, which can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness. To minimize this risk, the client should be advised to rise slowly from lying down or sitting to standing positions. This gradual movement helps the body adjust to changes in blood pressure more effectively.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "If I take my blood pressure and it is normal, I don't have to take my blood pressure pills": This statement reflects a misunderstanding of hypertension management. Blood pressure medications are typically prescribed to help control blood pressure over the long term, regardless of individual blood pressure readings. Stopping medication without consulting a healthcare provider can be dangerous and is not recommended.
B. "When getting up from bed, I will sit for a short period before standing up": This statement demonstrates an understanding of orthostatic hypotension prevention, which is important for clients with hypertension and can be a side effect of certain medications.
C. "I will consult a dietician to help get my weight under control": This statement indicates the client's awareness of the importance of weight management in hypertension control and is a positive step toward healthy lifestyle changes.
D. "I think I'm going to sign up for a yoga class twice a week to help reduce my stress": This statement shows the client's proactive approach to stress reduction, which is beneficial for hypertension management as stress can contribute to elevated blood pressure.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "The decreased HDL level will increase the amount of cholesterol moved away from the artery walls":
This statement is incorrect. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is often referred to as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transport it to the liver for processing. A decreased HDL level is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, not with moving cholesterol away from artery walls.
B. "Increased LDL and decreased HDL increase my risk of coronary artery disease":
This statement is correct. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because elevated LDL levels contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). Conversely, decreased HDL levels are associated with reduced cholesterol removal from the bloodstream, further increasing the risk of CAD.
C. "Increased LDL has the potential to decrease my risk of heart disease":
This statement is incorrect. Elevated LDL levels are a major risk factor for heart disease and are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events.
D. "The increased LDL will decrease the amount of cholesterol deposited on the artery walls":
This statement is incorrect. Increased LDL levels contribute to the deposition of cholesterol on artery walls, leading to the formation of plaque and narrowing of the arteries, which is detrimental to heart health.
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