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) Heart rate of 66/min:
A heart rate of 66/min is within the normal range (60-100 bpm) and does not typically require contacting the provider before administering a calcium channel blocker. CCBs can affect heart rate, but this finding alone is not a contraindication for their use.

(b) BP of 148/94 mm Hg:
A blood pressure reading of 148/94 mm Hg indicates hypertension, which is an appropriate indication for the use of calcium channel blockers. This finding supports the use of the medication rather than requiring the provider to be contacted.

(c) Peripheral edema of the ankles:
Peripheral edema is a known side effect of calcium channel blockers. If the client is already experiencing edema, administering the medication could potentially worsen this condition. The nurse should contact the provider to discuss this finding before proceeding with the medication administration.

(d) A digoxin level of 1.2 ng/mL:
A digoxin level of 1.2 ng/mL is within the therapeutic range (0.5-2.0 ng/mL). This finding does not necessitate contacting the provider before administering a calcium channel blocker, as it does not indicate toxicity or a contraindication for CCB use

(A) Place the client in high-Fowler’s position and encourage the use of incentive spirometer and coughing: This is the most appropriate action. The high-Fowler’s position can help improve lung expansion and gas exchange, while the use of an incentive spirometer and coughing can help clear secretions and improve ventilation. This is particularly important for a client who is postoperative following an open thoracotomy.

(B) Switch oxygen to a nonrebreather mask: Switching to a nonrebreather mask may deliver a higher concentration of oxygen, but it does not address the underlying issue of impaired gas exchange due to decreased lung expansion and retained secretions.

(C) Position the client prone and have the respiratory therapist perform postural drainage: While postural drainage can help clear secretions, it may not be comfortable or safe for a client who is 1 day postoperative following an open thoracotomy.

(D) Increase oxygen to 70%: Increasing the oxygen concentration may improve the client’s oxygen saturation, but it does not address the underlying issue of impaired gas exchange due to decreased lung expansion and retained secretions. Furthermore, excessively high concentrations of oxygen can have harmful effects, such as oxygen toxicity or suppression of the respiratory drive in some clients.