A patient receives a drug that has a narrow therapeutic range. The nurse administering this medication will expect to do what?

Choice A Reason:

The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) plays a role in regulating body temperature. It does this by controlling the dilation and constriction of blood vessels in the skin, which helps to dissipate or conserve heat as needed. Therefore, the statement that the SNS regulates body temperature is correct.

Choice B Reason:

The SNS is crucial in regulating the cardiovascular system. It increases heart rate and the force of heart contractions, and it also causes vasoconstriction, which raises blood pressure. This statement is accurate and does not indicate a need for further teaching.

Choice C Reason:

This is the correct answer. The SNS generally inhibits digestive functions during the “fight-or-flight” response. It reduces blood flow to the digestive organs, decreases peristalsis, and inhibits digestive secretions. Therefore, the statement that the SNS regulates digestive functions is incorrect and indicates a need for further teaching.

Choice D Reason:

The SNS is responsible for the “fight-or-flight” response, which prepares the body to respond to perceived threats. This includes increasing heart rate, dilating airways, and mobilizing energy stores. This statement is correct and does not indicate a need for further teaching.

Choice A Reason:

Disease treatment refers to the management and care of a patient to combat a disease or condition. This includes interventions aimed at curing the disease, alleviating symptoms, or preventing complications. While physical therapy can be part of disease treatment, in the context of a heart attack, it is more accurately described as a form of tertiary prevention.

Choice B Reason:

Tertiary prevention involves measures taken to reduce the impact of an ongoing illness or injury that has lasting effects. This includes rehabilitation and efforts to prevent further complications or deterioration. Physical therapy after a heart attack is a classic example of tertiary prevention, as it aims to improve the patient’s quality of life, enhance physical function, and prevent further cardiac events.

Choice C Reason:

Secondary prevention focuses on early detection and prompt intervention to prevent the progression of a disease. This includes screening tests and early treatment of conditions to halt or slow their progression. In the case of heart disease, secondary prevention might involve regular monitoring of blood pressure and cholesterol levels to detect and manage risk factors early.

Choice D Reason:

Primary prevention aims to prevent the onset of disease before it occurs by reducing risk factors and promoting healthy behaviors. This includes lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and smoking cessation to prevent the development of heart disease in the first place. Physical therapy after a heart attack does not fall under primary prevention, as it is an intervention after the disease has already occurred.