A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for propranolol for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Withhold the medication if the systolic blood pressure is less than 90 mm Hg.
Request a dosage increase if the apical heart rate is less than 60/min.
Inform the client to expect increased hair growth.
Administer the medication with an antacid.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Withholding the medication if the systolic blood pressure is less than 90 mm Hg is an appropriate action, as propranolol is a beta-blocker that can lower blood pressure and cause hypotension, which can impair tissue perfusion and cause dizziness, fainting, or shock.
Choice B reason: Requesting a dosage increase if the apical heart rate is less than 60/min is an inappropriate action, as propranolol can slow down the heart rate and cause bradycardia, which can lead to fatigue, weakness, or cardiac arrest. The nurse should monitor the apical pulse before administering propranolol and withhold it if it is less than 60/min.
Choice C reason: Informing the client to expect increased hair growth is an incorrect statement, as propranolol does not cause hypertrichosis or excessive hair growth. However, another beta-blocker, minoxidil, can cause this side effect.
Choice D reason: Administering the medication with an antacid is not an appropriate action, as antacids can interfere with the absorption of propranolol and reduce its effectiveness. The nurse should administer propranolol on an empty stomach or with food that does not contain antacids.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect because maintaining the client on bed rest can increase the risk of complications such as pneumonia, thromboembolism, or pressure ulcers. The nurse should encourage early ambulation and frequent position changes to promote healing and prevent complications.
Choice B: This is correct because repositioning the client can help relieve pressure and discomfort from the incision site. The nurse should assist the client to change positions every 2 hours and use pillows or splints to support the incision.
Choice C: This is incorrect because applying a warm, moist compress to the incision area can interfere with wound healing and increase the risk of infection. The nurse should keep the incision site clean and dry and follow the provider's orders for dressing changes.
Choice D: This is incorrect because administering an additional dose of pain medication is not necessary when the client reports a pain level of 2 on a scale of 0 to 10. The nurse should monitor the client's pain level and administer pain medication as prescribed and as needed.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: The nurse should contact the provider to clarify the prescription because applying heat to an area with impaired sensation can cause burns or tissue damage. The nurse should also educate the client about the risks of using heat therapy and alternative methods to relieve pain.
Choice B reason: The Semmes Weinstein monofilament test is used to assess the sensation of light touch in clients with peripheral neuropathy. The nurse should perform this test before applying any intervention that could affect the skin integrity, such as heat, cold, or compression.
Choice C reason: Observing the skin 10 min after the start of treatment is not sufficient to prevent complications from heat therapy. The nurse should monitor the skin continuously and check for signs of redness, blisters, or burns.
Choice D reason: Applying the heating pad as prescribed by the provider is not appropriate for a client with diabetic neuropathy of the lower extremities. Heat can increase blood flow and inflammation in the affected area, which can worsen the condition and increase the risk of infection.
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