A nurse is assessing a clie”t prior to administering atenolol. Which of the following findings should prompt the nurse to withhold the medication?
Respiratory rate 18/min
Oxygen saturation 95%
Heart rate 46/min
Blood pressure 160/94 mm Hg
The Correct Answer is C
A) Respiratory rate 18/min:
A respiratory rate of 18/min is within the normal range for adults and is not a contraindication for administering atenolol. This finding does not warrant withholding the medication.
B) Oxygen saturation 95%:
An oxygen saturation of 95% is within the normal range and does not indicate any acute respiratory compromise. It is not a contraindication for administering atenolol.
C) Heart rate 46/min:
A heart rate of 46/min is below the normal range (typically 60-100 beats per minute for adults). Atenolol is a beta-blocker that primarily acts to reduce heart rate and blood pressure. Administering atenolol to a client with bradycardia (heart rate less than 60/min) can further decrease heart rate and may lead to symptomatic bradycardia or heart block. Therefore, the nurse should withhold atenolol in this case and notify the healthcare provider.
D) Blood pressure 160/94 mm Hg:
A blood pressure of 160/94 mm Hg indicates hypertension (elevated blood pressure). While atenolol is often prescribed for the management of hypertension, this blood pressure reading alone does not warrant withholding the medication. However, the client's bradycardia (heart rate 46/min)’is a more immediate concern that requires action."
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","E"]
Explanation
A) Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA):
Obstructive sleep apnea is a known risk factor for the development of hypertension. During episodes of sleep apnea, breathing repeatedly stops and starts, leading to disruptions in normal sleep patterns and potentially contributing to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, systemic inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction, all of which can elevate blood pressure over time.
B) The choice B was incorrect. While a diet high in potassium is generally associated with lower blood pressure due to its beneficial effects on blood vessel function and fluid balance, it is not considered a risk factor for developing hypertension. In fact, potassium-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and legumes are often recommended as part of a heart-healthy diet to help manage blood pressure.
C) The choice C was incorrect. A high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level of 70 mg/dL is actually considered beneficial for cardiovascular health. HDL is often referred to as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries. Having a high HDL level is typically associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, including hypertension.
D) The choice D was incorrect. Benazepril is actually an antihypertensive medication, specifically an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It is used to treat hypertension, not as a risk factor for its development. ACE inhibitors work by relaxing blood vessels, which helps lower blood pressure. While taking certain medications like benazepril may contribute to the management of hypertension, they are not considered risk factors for its development.
E) Cigarette smoking:
Cigarette smoking is a well-established risk factor for the development of hypertension. Smoking cigarettes can lead to the constriction of blood vessels, increased heart rate, and damage to the lining of blood vessels, all of which can elevate blood pressure. Additionally, the chemicals in tobacco smoke can contribute to inflammation and oxidative stress, further exacerbating cardiovascular risk factors. Smoking cessation is an essential component of hypertension management and overall cardiovascular health.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Apples:
Apples are not contraindicated with spironolactone use. There are no known interactions between spironolactone and apples.
B) Fish:
Fish is not contraindicated with spironolactone use. There are no known interactions between spironolactone and fish.
C) Crackers:
Crackers are not contraindicated with spironolactone use. There are no known interactions between spironolactone and crackers.
D) Bananas:
Bananas are high in potassium, and spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic. Ingesting potassium-rich foods such as bananas while taking spironolactone can increase the risk of hyperkalemia. Therefore, the nurse should instruct the client to avoid consuming large amounts of potassium-rich foods like bananas to prevent adverse effects."
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