Which action should the nurse implement to assess the effectiveness of amlodipine?
Monitor the client's serum electrolytes.
Measure the client's blood pressure.
Review the client's intake and output.
Note the client's serum calcium levels.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Monitor the client's serum electrolytes:
Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, primarily affects blood pressure and not directly electrolyte levels. Monitoring electrolytes is more relevant for medications that affect electrolyte balance, such as diuretics or certain antihypertensives.
B. Measure the client's blood pressure:
Amlodipine is used to treat hypertension and angina by relaxing blood vessels. The primary measure of its effectiveness is the reduction in blood pressure. Therefore, measuring the client’s blood pressure is crucial to assess whether the medication is effectively managing hypertension.
C. Review the client's intake and output:
While monitoring intake and output is important for assessing fluid balance and kidney function, it is not the primary method for evaluating the effectiveness of amlodipine in controlling blood pressure.
D. Note the client's serum calcium levels:
Amlodipine affects calcium channels but does not directly influence serum calcium levels significantly. Serum calcium levels are not used to assess the effectiveness of amlodipine in treating hypertension or angina.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Perform a bladder scan:
This intervention is useful for assessing urinary retention or post-void residual volumes but is not specifically related to monitoring the adverse effects of tamsulosin.
B. Obtain daily weights:
Daily weights are typically used to monitor fluid balance and signs of fluid retention, not specifically for adverse reactions to tamsulosin.
C. Assess urine output:
While monitoring urine output can be important in managing BPH, it is not specifically targeted to identify adverse reactions to tamsulosin.
D. Monitor blood pressure:
Tamsulosin, an alpha-1 blocker, can cause orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing up) and dizziness. Monitoring blood pressure helps detect this potential adverse effect, ensuring the client is not experiencing significant drops in blood pressure.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Explore what the client means by the drug "is not working":
The first step in addressing the client's concern is to understand their perception of how the medication is performing. This involves exploring their specific symptoms, any changes they've noticed, and their expectations of the medication. This understanding will help guide further assessment and intervention.
B. Determine if the client is taking the medication before meals:
Carbidopa-levodopa is typically recommended to be taken on an empty stomach to optimize absorption. While this is important for effective medication use, addressing the client's perception of the drug's effectiveness takes priority to identify whether there is an issue with their treatment regimen or if other factors are influencing their response.
C. Evaluate the client for signs of dyskinesia:
Dyskinesia, or involuntary movements, can be a side effect of long-term use of carbidopa-levodopa, but evaluating for these signs should follow the initial exploration of the client's concerns. If the client believes the medication is ineffective, it’s crucial first to clarify what symptoms they are experiencing before assessing for specific side effects.
D. Ask if the client's morning voids are dark colored:
Dark-colored urine is not directly related to the effectiveness of carbidopa-levodopa. This assessment is less relevant compared to understanding the client's overall experience with the medication and symptoms. Addressing the client’s concern about the medication’s effectiveness should be the priority.
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