A patient is receiving propranolol (Inderal) for hypertension. Which outcome is the best indicator of goal success when considering the drugs potential effect on the patients quality of life?

A. Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) impairs blood flow to the extremities, which can affect the body's ability to regulate temperature, heal wounds, and manage cardiovascular function. Despite having regular home health care, which helps with monitoring and managing the condition, PVD still poses challenges to maintaining homeostasis.
B. Chronic bronchitis is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that impairs lung function and impacts the body's ability to exchange gases efficiently. This condition can lead to chronic hypoxemia (low oxygen levels) and hypercapnia (elevated carbon dioxide levels), which directly affect homeostasis.
C. This individual is undergoing significant life changes, including bereavement and relocation, which can affect emotional and physiological well-being. While these stressors can impact overall health, they are less directly related to physiological processes that maintain homeostasis compared to chronic physical conditions.
D. Alzheimer’s disease leads to significant cognitive decline, which impairs the ability to perform daily activities and manage personal health. This cognitive impairment can result in a reduced ability to recognize and respond to physiological needs, which compromises homeostatic mechanisms. The need for assistance with all ADLs indicates severe functional impairment, making this patient highly vulnerable to disruptions in homeostasis due to their inability to self-manage health and daily activities effectively.

A. Easy bleeding is not a common side effect or concern associated with benzodiazepines. This symptom is more typically associated with anticoagulant medications or conditions affecting blood clotting. While it’s essential to monitor for side effects, easy bleeding is not directly related to benzodiazepine use.
B. Shortness of breath is not a typical side effect of benzodiazepines. However, it is important to monitor respiratory function in patients on any medication, especially if there are signs of respiratory distress or if the patient is on other medications that might interact with benzodiazepines. A
C. Benzodiazepines are known to cause cognitive impairments, including forgetfulness. This is particularly concerning in older adults, who may be more vulnerable to cognitive side effects. Memory issues and confusion can impact daily functioning and increase the risk of accidents and falls.
D. Daytime sleepiness is a common side effect of benzodiazepines due to their sedative properties. This side effect can significantly affect daily activities and increase the risk of falls and accidents. It’s essential to monitor patients for excessive drowsiness, as it can impact their safety and overall quality of life.
E. Benzodiazepines can cause motor impairment, including unsteady gait and increased risk of falls. This is particularly problematic in older adults who may already have decreased balance and coordination. Monitoring for unsteady gait is crucial to prevent falls and other injuries related to impaired mobility.