The nurse is caring for a client whose blood pressure is 200/110, heart rate is 160, respiratory rate is 24 and temperature is 102°F. Which of the following medications should the nurse administer first?
dextrose
acetaminophen (Tylenol)
propranolol (Inderal)
potassium iodide (SSKI)
The Correct Answer is C
A. Dextrose is used to treat hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and there is no indication from the vital signs provided that the client is hypoglycemic.
B. Acetaminophen is an antipyretic (fever reducer), but the priority is not to treat the fever immediately in this case. The client's blood pressure and heart rate need to be addressed first.
C. Propranolol is a beta-blocker that can help reduce both heart rate and blood pressure. The client has severe hypertension (200/110) and tachycardia (heart rate of 160), which may indicate a hypertensive crisis or severe adrenergic overactivity. Propranolol can help lower the heart rate and blood pressure quickly, which is crucial to avoid further cardiovascular complications.
D. Potassium iodide is used in cases of thyroid storm or exposure to radioactive iodine. It is not appropriate for this situation, as the symptoms do not indicate a thyroid emergency or radiation exposure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Low serum thyroxine (T4) level In hyperthyroidism, the serum thyroxine (T4) level is typically elevated due to excessive production of thyroid hormones.
B. Decreased serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) In hyperthyroidism, the body produces excess thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), which negatively feedback to the pituitary gland and result in decreased TSH levels. This is a key diagnostic finding.
C. Tachycardia or fine hand tremor Hyperthyroidism often causes symptoms like tachycardia (increased heart rate) and a fine hand tremor due to the overstimulation of the body's metabolism and sympathetic nervous system.
D. Elevated serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) In hyperthyroidism, the TSH level is typically low due to negative feedback from the excess thyroid hormones.
E. Elevated serum thyroxine (T4) In hyperthyroidism, the serum thyroxine (T4) level is elevated because the thyroid gland is producing too much thyroid hormone.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Magnesium hydroxide can interfere with the absorption of levothyroxine (Synthroid) and reduce its effectiveness. The nurse should notify the healthcare provider if the client is taking magnesium hydroxide or any other antacid that contains magnesium, calcium, or aluminum because these can decrease the absorption of levothyroxine.
B. While amitriptyline (an antidepressant) may interact with other medications, it does not typically interfere with levothyroxine. However, the nurse should always be cautious about potential interactions, especially with medications that affect the central nervous system.
C. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) does not typically interact with levothyroxine. It is safe to take acetaminophen while on levothyroxine.
D. Gabapentin (Neurontin) does not generally interfere with levothyroxine absorption or action. However, as with any medication, the nurse should be aware of other potential interactions based on the client’s overall health.
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