A nurse is caring for a client who has a new prescription for atenolol. For which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor the client?

a. Asthma: While asthma can cause dyspnea and fatigue, it is not typically associated with tachycardia and edema.

b. Heart failure: Heart failure is characterized by symptoms such as dyspnea, fatigue,

tachycardia, and edema. Tachycardia may be a compensatory response to maintain cardiac output, and edema can result from fluid retention.

c. Aortic valve regurgitation: Aortic valve regurgitation may cause symptoms such as dyspnea and fatigue, but it is not typically associated with tachycardia and edema.

d. Aortic stenosis: Aortic stenosis may lead to symptoms such as dyspnea, but tachycardia and edema are not typical features of aortic stenosis.

a. Begin oxygen therapy: Oxygen therapy is the priority intervention for a client with a pulmonary embolism to improve oxygenation and prevent hypoxemia.

b. Start an IV infusion of lactated Ringer’s: While fluid resuscitation may be needed, oxygen therapy takes precedence to address the immediate respiratory compromise.

c. Initiate cardiac monitoring: Cardiac monitoring is important, but addressing oxygenation is the priority in a client with a pulmonary embolism.

d. Administer IV morphine: Pain management may be necessary, but the priority is to address the respiratory distress and potential hypoxemia associated with a pulmonary embolism.