The nurse is assessing a patient who was recently switched to amlodipine. Which assessment finding indicates that the patient is experiencing side effects of the drug? Select All That Apply
Pedal edema
Muscle cramps
Dizziness
Sexual dysfunction
Bradycardia
Correct Answer : A,B,C,D
A. Pedal edema: Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, can cause peripheral edema as a side effect due to its vasodilatory effects on arterioles. This can manifest as swelling, particularly in the feet and ankles.
B. Muscle cramps: Muscle cramps are a known side effect of amlodipine. While the mechanism is not fully understood, calcium channel blockers like amlodipine can disrupt calcium ion flux in muscle cells, potentially leading to muscle cramping.
C. Dizziness: Dizziness is a common side effect of amlodipine, particularly during the initial period of treatment or when dosage adjustments are made. It is believed to be related to its vasodilatory effects and subsequent lowering of blood pressure.
D. Sexual dysfunction: Sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction, has been reported as a side effect of amlodipine in some patients. The exact mechanism is not well understood but may be related to alterations in blood flow or neurohormonal effects.
E. Bradycardia: Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not a typical side effect of amlodipine. Amlodipine primarily acts as a vasodilator and does not typically affect heart rate. In fact, it may cause reflex tachycardia (increased heart rate) in some individuals as a compensatory response to its vasodilatory effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Diarrhea: Diarrhea is not a common side effect of metoprolol, a beta-blocker medication commonly used to treat hypertension. While gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea or constipation may occur, diarrhea is not typically associated with metoprolol use.
B. Insomnia: Insomnia, or difficulty falling or staying asleep, is a potential side effect of metoprolol. Beta-blockers like metoprolol may interfere with sleep patterns in some individuals, leading to insomnia. It is important for the nurse to assess the patient for changes in sleep patterns while taking metoprolol.
C. Urinary retention: Urinary retention, or the inability to completely empty the bladder, is not a common side effect of metoprolol. In fact, beta-blockers like metoprolol are more likely to cause urinary frequency or urgency rather than retention.
D. Gum changes: Gum changes, such as gingival hyperplasia, are not typically associated with metoprolol use. This side effect is more commonly associated with certain other medications, such as calcium channel blockers or anticonvulsants.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Administer post-exposure prophylaxis medication: Administering post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) medication is an essential step in preventing HIV transmission after a needlestick injury. However, it is not the first action to be taken. Before administering PEP, immediate precautions should be implemented to minimize the risk of transmission.
B. Determine the HIV status of the patient: While knowing the HIV status of the patient is important for assessing the risk of transmission, it is not the first action to be taken after a needlestick injury. Obtaining the patient's HIV status may take time and may not be immediately available. Therefore, other precautionary measures should be implemented first.
C. Advise exposed health care providers to use precautions: This is the most immediate and appropriate action following a needlestick injury. Advising exposed healthcare providers to use precautions, such as wearing gloves and washing the affected area thoroughly, helps minimize the risk of HIV transmission immediately after the incident. It is essential to prioritize safety measures for the healthcare provider while waiting for further assessment and management steps.
D. Undergo early reevaluation after exposure: While early reevaluation after exposure is important, especially for assessing the need for additional medical interventions, it is not the first action to be taken. Immediate precautions to prevent transmission should be prioritized before further evaluation.
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