After administering an inotropic medication to a patient in shock, the nurse monitors the patient for signs of:
Decreased cardiac output.
Increased afterload.
Increased cardiac output.
Slowing of the heart rate.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Decreased cardiac output: Inotropic medications are intended to improve cardiac function and increase cardiac output, so monitoring for signs of decreased cardiac output would be contrary to the expected therapeutic effect of these medications.
B. Increased afterload: Inotropic medications primarily affect the contractility of the heart muscle and do not typically have a direct effect on afterload (the force against which the heart must pump blood). While changes in afterload can occur as a secondary consequence of altered cardiac function, monitoring for signs of increased afterload would not be the primary focus after administering an inotropic medication.
C. Increased cardiac output.
Inotropic medications are drugs that affect the contractility of the heart muscle. They are often used in the management of shock to improve cardiac function and increase cardiac output. Therefore, after administering an inotropic medication, the nurse would monitor the patient for signs of increased cardiac output, such as improved peripheral perfusion, increased blood pressure, and resolution of signs and symptoms of shock.
D. Slowing of the heart rate: Inotropic medications can affect heart rate indirectly by altering cardiac output, but their primary effect is on contractility rather than heart rate. Monitoring for signs of bradycardia (slowing of the heart rate) may be appropriate in certain clinical situations, but it is not the primary consideration after administering an inotropic medication for shock.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Antihistamines:
Antihistamines are commonly used in the treatment of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, which is released during an allergic reaction, and can help alleviate symptoms such as itching, hives, and nasal congestion. Antihistamines are typically included in the treatment regimen for anaphylaxis but should not be relied upon as the sole treatment.
B) Vasodilators.
Vasodilators are medications that widen blood vessels, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. In the context of anaphylaxis, where blood pressure can drop precipitously due to systemic vasodilation, the use of vasodilators can exacerbate hypotension, potentially worsening the patient's condition. Therefore, vasodilators should be avoided in the management of anaphylaxis.
C) Corticosteroids:
Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone, are used in the management of anaphylaxis to reduce inflammation and prevent late-phase allergic reactions. They are not typically used as first-line treatment during the acute phase of anaphylaxis but may be administered after initial stabilization to prevent recurrence of symptoms.
D) Bronchodilators:
Bronchodilators, such as albuterol, are used to relieve bronchospasm and improve airflow in conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While bronchospasm can occur during anaphylaxis, bronchodilators may still be used to address this symptom. However, they should be used cautiously, and their administration should not delay the administration of epinephrine, which is the primary treatment for anaphylaxis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) The amount of blood pumped by the heart through the circulatory system in 1 minute.
This statement describes cardiac output, which is the volume of blood pumped by the heart in one minute. Cardiac output is not directly related to the process of digestion.
B) Smooth muscle movement of the GI tract by way of contractions.
This statement describes peristalsis, which is the rhythmic contraction of smooth muscles in the GI tract that propels food and digestive contents through the digestive system. While peristalsis is an essential aspect of digestion, it does not encompass the entire process.
C) Neutralization by use of bicarbonate from pancreatic and biliary secretions.
This statement describes the role of bicarbonate in neutralizing stomach acid in the small intestine. Bicarbonate is released from pancreatic and biliary secretions to neutralize acidic chyme from the stomach, creating a more favorable environment for digestive enzymes to function. While this is an important aspect of digestion, it does not fully encompass the entire process.
D) It is the process when food is broken down into molecules that can be absorbed.
Digestion refers to the process by which food is broken down into smaller molecules that can be absorbed and utilized by the body. This process occurs in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and involves the mechanical and chemical breakdown of food into nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, as well as vitamins and minerals. These nutrients are then absorbed across the lining of the GI tract and transported to cells throughout the body for energy, growth, and repair.
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