The nurse is about to administer the combination medication chlorthalidone and atenolol to a client diagnosed with chronic hypertension. Which interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care? (Select all that apply)
Administer if the blood pressure is 90/60 and monitor for side effects
Hold if the heart rate is less than 60 beats per minute
Teach to dangle feet before standing
Encourage to limit the intake of potassium-rich foods
Monitor fluid intake and output
Correct Answer : B,C,E
Choice A reason: Chlorthalidone and atenolol are used to treat hypertension⁴⁵. However, administering the medication when the blood pressure is 90/60 might not be advisable. This is because atenolol, a beta-blocker, can further lower the heart rate and blood pressure¹¹⁷. Therefore, it's important to monitor the patient's blood pressure before administration¹.
Choice B reason: Atenolol can slow the heart rate¹¹⁷. If the heart rate is already less than 60 beats per minute, which is the lower limit of the normal range¹, the medication should be held and the healthcare provider should be notified⁵.
Choice C reason: One of the side effects of atenolol and chlorthalidone is dizziness or lightheadedness¹¹⁷. Teaching the patient to dangle their feet before standing can help prevent orthostatic hypotension, a form of low blood pressure that happens when you stand up from sitting or lying down¹¹.
Choice D reason: Chlorthalidone is a diuretic that can cause the body to lose potassium¹¹⁷. However, atenolol does not have this effect⁵. Therefore, it's not necessary to limit the intake of potassium-rich foods unless advised by a healthcare provider.
Choice E reason: Monitoring fluid intake and output is important when administering diuretics like chlorthalidone⁵. This can help ensure the patient is not becoming dehydrated and help monitor the medication's effectiveness¹¹.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Traveling to cities where the oxygen level is lower, such as high-altitude areas, can trigger a sickle cell crisis by reducing the amount of oxygen in the blood. People with sickle cell anemia should avoid such places or take precautions such as using supplemental oxygen¹².
Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Strenuous exercise does not prevent sickle cell crisis, but rather can cause it by increasing the body's oxygen demand and dehydration. People with sickle cell anemia should avoid overexertion and rest frequently during physical activity¹³.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Flying on commercial airlines is not prohibited for people with sickle cell anemia, as long as they stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine. However, some people may need to use supplemental oxygen during flights, especially if they have a history of acute chest syndrome or pulmonary hypertension¹⁴.
Choice D reason: This is correct. Drinking plenty of fluids when outside in hot weather is important for people with sickle cell anemia, as dehydration can cause the red blood cells to sickle and block blood vessels. Staying hydrated can help prevent or reduce the severity of sickle cell crises¹⁵.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Walking directly in front of the client may block their view and increase their risk of falling. The nurse should walk to the side and slightly behind the client to provide support and guidance³.
Choice B reason: This is correct. Walking along the affected left side allows the nurse to assist the client with balance, weight shifting, and foot clearance. The nurse should also encourage the client to use the handrail on their strong side³.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Walking directly behind the client may not allow the nurse to see the client's gait pattern or intervene quickly if the client loses balance. The nurse should walk to the side and slightly behind the client to monitor and assist them³.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect. Walking along the unaffected right side may not provide adequate support or protection for the client's affected side. The nurse should walk along the affected left side to help the client with their hemiplegic gait³.
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