The nurse is preparing to administer the prescribed dose of nadolol to a client diagnosed with hypertension. What action should the nurse I take immediately before administering the dose?
Obtain a finger-stick glucose level.
Measure and document a set of vital signs.
Draw blood for renal function laboratory tests.
Request a 12-lead electrocardiogram
The Correct Answer is B
A. Obtain a finger-stick glucose level: Nadolol is a nonselective beta-blocker that can mask signs of hypoglycemia, but routine glucose checks are not required immediately before each dose unless the client has diabetes or symptoms of low blood sugar.
B. Measure and document a set of vital signs: Nadolol lowers heart rate and blood pressure by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors. Assessing apical pulse and blood pressure immediately before administration ensures the medication is safe to give and helps prevent bradycardia or hypotension.
C. Draw blood for renal function laboratory tests: Nadolol is excreted renally, so kidney function is monitored over time rather than immediately before each dose. This assessment does not directly determine whether the dose should be administered at that moment.
D. Request a 12-lead electrocardiogram: A routine ECG is not required before administering nadolol unless the client has new cardiac symptoms or known conduction abnormalities. Heart rate and blood pressure assessment provide the most immediate and relevant safety information.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Shakiness is a common side effect after using an albuterol inhaler: Albuterol is a short-acting beta-2 agonist that can stimulate beta receptors in skeletal muscle, leading to tremors or shakiness. This effect is common, dose-related, and often decreases as the body adjusts to the medication.
B. I will have the healthcare provider prescribe a new medication: Requesting a medication change is not the initial nursing response when the reported effect is expected and non-dangerous. Education and reassurance should be provided first unless symptoms are severe or interfere with therapy.
C. You should take half the dose prescribed to decrease the effects: Altering the prescribed dose without provider authorization can lead to inadequate bronchodilation and poor asthma or COPD control. Dose changes must only be made by the prescribing healthcare provider.
D. Stop taking the medication immediately and come to the clinic: Shakiness alone does not indicate a dangerous reaction requiring discontinuation or urgent evaluation. Immediate cessation is reserved for severe adverse reactions such as chest pain, severe tachycardia, or paradoxical bronchospasm.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Heart failure: Terazosin is not primarily indicated for heart failure management. While it may have some vasodilatory effects that could theoretically reduce afterload, it is not a standard treatment for heart failure and does not address the core pathophysiology.
B. Peripheral vascular disease: Terazosin does not directly treat peripheral vascular disease. Its mechanism of action as an alpha-1 adrenergic blocker primarily targets vascular smooth muscle to lower systemic blood pressure rather than improve blood flow to peripheral tissues.
C. Pulmonary edema: Pulmonary edema is usually managed with diuretics, oxygen therapy, and addressing the underlying cause. Terazosin does not have an acute role in managing fluid overload or pulmonary congestion.
D. Chronic hypertension: Terazosin is an alpha-1 adrenergic blocker used to treat chronic hypertension by relaxing vascular smooth muscle, reducing peripheral vascular resistance, and lowering blood pressure. It is commonly prescribed for long-term blood pressure control, especially in clients who may also have benign prostatic hyperplasia.
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.
