A patient with heart failure is prescribed sotalol for atrial fibrillation. Which of the following should the nurse recognize as a potential concern?
Increases the force of the heart's contractions (Positive Inotropic Effect)
Hypertension
Decreases the force of the heart's contractions (Negative Inotropic Effect)
Hypercholesterolemia
The Correct Answer is C
(A) Positive Inotropic Effect: Sotalol does not increase contractility; it weakens contractions, making it a negative inotrope.
(B) Hypertension: Sotalol primarily lowers blood pressure and heart rate, which can actually cause hypotension.
(C) Negative Inotropic Effect: Sotalol is a beta-blocker that decreases myocardial contractility, which can further reduce cardiac output in heart failure patients.
(D) Hypercholesterolemia: Sotalol does not significantly impact cholesterol levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
(A) Hypertonic Fluids: Would worsen hypernatremia by increasing sodium levels.
(B) Isotonic Fluids: These help with volume depletion but do not effectively reduce sodium levels.
(C) Colloid Infusions: Used for hypovolemia but do not correct sodium imbalances.
(D) Hypotonic Fluids: A sodium level of 155 mEq/L (hypernatremia) indicates dehydration, and hypotonic fluids (e.g., 0.45% NaCl) help shift water into cells and lower sodium levels.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
(A) Obtain a urine specimen: Important for diagnosis but not the priority over pain management.
(B) Administer prescribed analgesics: Pain relief is the priority in acute urolithiasis, as renal colic is excruciating.
(C) Encourage oral fluids: Helps prevent further stone formation but is secondary to pain relief.
(D) Prepare the patient for surgery: Surgery is only indicated for large, obstructing stones, not a first-line intervention.
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