A nurse is collecting data from a client prior to administering a calcium channel blocker (CCB) for treatment of hypertension. For which of the following findings should the nurse contact the provider?

A. Headache:

Headache is not typically a clinical manifestation of an acute myocardial infarction. The more common symptoms are related to chest pain, autonomic responses, and cardiovascular changes.

B. Tachycardia:

Tachycardia, or an increased heart rate, is a common symptom during an acute MI. This occurs as the body attempts to compensate for decreased cardiac output and perfusion.

C. Nausea:

Nausea is a frequent symptom associated with an acute MI. It results from the activation of the autonomic nervous system during the heart attack.

D. Diaphoresis:

Diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, is a classic symptom of an acute MI. It occurs due to the sympathetic nervous system's response to pain and stress from the heart attack.

E. Orthopnea:

Orthopnea, or difficulty breathing when lying down, is more commonly associated with congestive heart failure rather than an acute MI. While shortness of breath can occur during an MI, orthopnea is not a primary manifestation.

(A) Increase the heat in the client’s room: Increasing the heat in the client’s room is not typically recommended for a client experiencing dyspnea. Heat can sometimes make breathing more difficult, and it does not address the underlying cause of the dyspnea.

(B) Perform nasotracheal suctioning for the client: Nasotracheal suctioning can be used to clear the airway in certain situations, but it is not typically the first-line treatment for dyspnea in a client at the end of life. It can be uncomfortable and distressing for the client.

(C) Place the head of the client’s bed flat: Placing the head of the bed flat can actually make breathing more difficult for a client experiencing dyspnea. It is generally more helpful to elevate the head of the bed to facilitate easier breathing.

(D) Administer an opioid narcotic to the client: This is the most appropriate answer. Opioid narcotics can help to relieve dyspnea in clients at the end of life by reducing anxiety, decreasing the sensation of breathlessness, and improving the client’s overall comfort level. The use of opioids in this context should be carefully monitored to manage potential side effects.