An older client with heart failure (HF), coronary artery disease (CAD), and hypertension (HTN) is receiving these daily prescriptions: atenolol, furosemide, and enalapril. Which assessments should the nurse include in evaluating the effectiveness of the medications? (Select all that apply.)
Heart sounds.
Blood pressure.
Bowel sounds.
Daily weight.
Range of motion.
Correct Answer : A
Choice A reason:
Heart sounds: Monitoring heart sounds is crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of medications in a client with heart failure and coronary artery disease. Changes in heart sounds, such as the presence of new murmurs or gallops, can indicate worsening heart failure or other cardiac complications1. Regular assessment helps in early detection and management of potential issues.
Choice B reason:
Blood pressure: Blood pressure monitoring is essential for clients with hypertension and those taking medications like atenolol and enalapril. These medications are used to manage blood pressure and reduce the workload on the heart. Regular monitoring ensures that the medications are effectively controlling blood pressure within the target range, typically less than 130/80 mm Hg.
Choice C reason:
Bowel sounds: While assessing bowel sounds is important for overall health, it is not directly related to evaluating the effectiveness of heart failure, CAD, or hypertension medications. Bowel sounds are more relevant in gastrointestinal assessments and do not provide specific information about the effectiveness of the prescribed cardiac medications.
Choice D reason:
Daily weight: Monitoring daily weight is a key assessment for clients with heart failure. Sudden weight gain can indicate fluid retention, which is a sign of worsening heart failure. Furosemide, a diuretic, helps manage fluid balance, and daily weight monitoring helps evaluate its effectiveness in preventing fluid overload.
Choice E reason:
Range of motion: Assessing range of motion is important for overall mobility and physical health but is not directly related to evaluating the effectiveness of medications for heart failure, CAD, or hypertension. It is more relevant in musculoskeletal assessments and rehabilitation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["0.8"]
Explanation
Calculation Steps
Step 1: Identify the concentration of the medication in the syringe.
The syringe is labeled “Enoxaparin sodium injection, USP 60 mg/0.6 mL.”
Step 2: Calculate the amount of medication per mL.
60 mg ÷ 0.6 mL = 100 mg/mL
Result = 100 mg/mL
Step 3: Determine the prescribed dose.
The prescribed dose is 80 mg.
Step 4: Calculate the volume to administer.
80 mg ÷ 100 mg/mL = 0.8 mL
Result = 0.8 mL
Therefore, the nurse should administer 0.8 mL.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Teaching the client about foods high in calcium is important, but it is not the most immediate action required. A serum calcium level of 5.5 mg/dL is significantly below the normal range (8.5-10.2 mg/dL) and indicates severe hypocalcemia. While dietary education is beneficial for long-term management, the nurse must first address the acute issue by notifying the healthcare provider.
Choice B reason:
Beginning to taper the drug dose per protocol is not appropriate without consulting the healthcare provider. Methylprednisolone, a corticosteroid, can cause decreased calcium absorption and increased calcium excretion. However, any changes to the medication regimen should be directed by the healthcare provider, especially in the context of severe hypocalcemia.
Choice C reason:
Notifying the healthcare provider of the finding is the most critical action. Severe hypocalcemia can lead to serious complications such as cardiac arrhythmias, muscle spasms, and seizures. Immediate medical intervention is necessary to correct the calcium imbalance and prevent potential life-threatening conditions.
Choice D reason:
Administering the medication with a glass of milk is not sufficient to address the severe hypocalcemia. While milk contains calcium, the amount is not enough to correct a serum calcium level as low as 5.5 mg/dL. The nurse must prioritize notifying the healthcare provider to ensure appropriate treatment is initiated.
Word count: 500 words.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.