A nurse is discussing the use of docusate sodium (Colace) with a client who is recovering from a non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). What is the rationale for administering this medication during the recovery from a myocardial infarction?

Treats hyperlipidemia to reduce the risk of new plaques

Prevents the formation of clots to reduce the risk of stroke

Prevents vagal stimulation to reduce e risk of dysrhythmias

Removes excess sodium to reduce the risk of hypertension

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A.   This statement refers to medications like statins (e.g., rosuvastatin, atorvastatin) which are used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis progression. Docusate sodium does not treat hyperlipidemia or affect plaque formation directly.
B.   This refers to anticoagulant medications (e.g., heparin, warfarin, direct oral anticoagulants) which are used to prevent clot formation and reduce the risk of thromboembolic events such as stroke. Docusate sodium does not have anticoagulant properties.
C.   After a myocardial infarction (MI), especially in the early recovery phase, vagal stimulation can exacerbate bradycardia or contribute to dysrhythmias. Stool softeners like docusate sodium help prevent constipation, which can stimulate the vagus nerve during straining, potentially leading to vagally mediated dysrhythmias such as bradycardia or atrioventricular blocks.
D.   Diuretics (e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide) are used to reduce fluid retention and lower blood pressure by increasing urine output. Docusate sodium does not remove excess sodium or affect blood pressure regulation.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Defibrillation is not typically indicated for atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation involves disorganized electrical activity in the atria rather than a shockable rhythm like ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia. Therefore, emergency defibrillation is not appropriate for a client with persistent atrial fibrillation.
B. CABG is a surgical procedure used to improve blood flow to the heart muscle by bypassing blocked coronary arteries. It is primarily indicated for clients with significant coronary artery disease that cannot be managed effectively with medications or less invasive
C. Anticoagulant therapy, such as with medications like warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), is crucial for clients with atrial fibrillation. AFib predisposes individuals to an increased risk of stroke due to the potential formation of blood clots in the atria. Anticoagulants help prevent clot formation and reduce the risk of stroke.
D. Diuretics are medications that increase urine output and are often used to manage fluid overload or congestion in conditions such as heart failure or volume overload. However, diuretic therapy alone does not address the underlying rhythm abnormality of atrial fibrillation.

A. To control the heart rate and reduce the oxygen demand of the heart. B. To prevent platelet aggregation in order to prevent thrombus formation. C. To reduce LDL cholesterol to prevent the formation of additional plaques. D. To relieve acute episodes of angina when they occur.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. This function is typically managed by medications such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, which help reduce heart rate and myocardial oxygen demand. Rosuvastatin does not directly affect heart rate or myocardial oxygen demand.
B. Medications like aspirin or other antiplatelet agents are used to inhibit platelet aggregation and reduce the risk of thrombus formation. Rosuvastatin is not primarily indicated for this purpose.
C. This is the correct rationale for prescribing rosuvastatin in a client with chronic stable angina. High LDL cholesterol levels contribute to the development and progression of atherosclerosis, which narrows coronary arteries and leads to angina. By lowering LDL cholesterol levels, rosuvastatin helps slow down the progression of atherosclerosis and reduces the risk of cardiovascular events, including angina.
D. Acute episodes of angina are typically managed with short-acting nitrates or other medications that dilate coronary arteries to improve blood flow to the heart muscle. Rosuvastatin does not provide immediate relief of angina symptoms.

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A nurse is discussing the use of docusate sodium (Colace) with a client who is recovering from a non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). What is the rationale for administering this medication during the recovery from a myocardial infarction?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client who has been diagnosed with chronic stable angina is placed on multiple medications to manage the condition. The nurse understands that the client is receiving rosuvastatin for which reason?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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