A nurse is assessing a patient admitted with diagnosis of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The nurse finds that the patient is experiencing a progressive decline in cognitive, behavioral and motor functions. The nurse identifies these symptoms are most likely related to the onset of which complication?

A. Continue to administer the metoprolol tartrate as ordered:
Metoprolol is a beta-blocker commonly used to treat hypertension, angina, and heart failure. One of its main effects is to decrease heart rate and blood pressure. In this scenario, the patient's vital signs reveal a low heart rate (48 bpm) and relatively low blood pressure (100/50 mmHg). Given that metoprolol can further reduce heart rate and blood pressure, it would be prudent for the nurse to withhold the medication until further assessment is conducted.

B. Ask the patient if her pulse is within the normal range:
While it's essential to assess the patient's understanding of her condition, asking if her pulse is within the normal range is not sufficient. The nurse should perform a more thorough assessment and consider the clinical significance of the vital signs obtained. In this case, a heart rate of 48 bpm is lower than the typical normal range for adults (60-100 bpm), indicating bradycardia, which may be symptomatic or concerning in the context of administering a beta-blocker like metoprolol.

C. Hold the medication and call the provider:
Given the patient's low heart rate (bradycardia) and relatively low blood pressure, holding the metoprolol tartrate and contacting the healthcare provider is the most appropriate action. Bradycardia and hypotension can be signs of excessive beta-blockade, especially with medications like metoprolol, which can further lower heart rate and blood pressure. The nurse should notify the provider promptly to discuss the patient's condition and determine the appropriate course of action.

D. Ask the patient to eat salty foods:
Encouraging the patient to eat salty foods would not address the underlying issue of bradycardia and hypotension. While increasing salt intake may help raise blood pressure in some cases, it is not a standard intervention for managing symptomatic bradycardia or low blood pressure caused by medication effects.

A. Pedal edema: Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, can cause peripheral edema as a side effect due to its vasodilatory effects on arterioles. This can manifest as swelling, particularly in the feet and ankles.

B. Muscle cramps: Muscle cramps are a known side effect of amlodipine. While the mechanism is not fully understood, calcium channel blockers like amlodipine can disrupt calcium ion flux in muscle cells, potentially leading to muscle cramping.

C. Dizziness: Dizziness is a common side effect of amlodipine, particularly during the initial period of treatment or when dosage adjustments are made. It is believed to be related to its vasodilatory effects and subsequent lowering of blood pressure.

D. Sexual dysfunction: Sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction, has been reported as a side effect of amlodipine in some patients. The exact mechanism is not well understood but may be related to alterations in blood flow or neurohormonal effects.

E. Bradycardia: Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not a typical side effect of amlodipine. Amlodipine primarily acts as a vasodilator and does not typically affect heart rate. In fact, it may cause reflex tachycardia (increased heart rate) in some individuals as a compensatory response to its vasodilatory effects.