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 C
Explanation
A) Diarrhea: Diarrhea is a common side effect of many medications, including those used for nausea and vomiting. While it can be uncomfortable and may require management, it is generally less severe compared to neurological symptoms. Persistent diarrhea should be monitored and managed, but it does not typically indicate a serious underlying issue with metoclopramide.
B) Unusual irritability: Irritability can occur as a side effect of many medications and might be a sign of a mild central nervous system effect or a response to the stress of illness. While it is important to assess and address any changes in mood, unusual irritability is generally less urgent compared to neurological symptoms that could suggest more serious adverse effects.
C) Involuntary movements: Involuntary movements, such as tremors or muscle spasms, are significant concerns when a patient is on metoclopramide. These symptoms can indicate extrapyramidal side effects, which include tardive dyskinesia or other severe movement disorders. These conditions can be serious and potentially irreversible if not addressed promptly, making it crucial to report such symptoms immediately to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and intervention.
D) Nausea: Nausea is the primary symptom that metoclopramide is intended to treat, so its presence is expected and does not usually signal an adverse reaction to the medication. If nausea persists despite treatment, it might suggest the need for dose adjustment or an alternative treatment, but it is not an urgent adverse effect that requires immediate reporting compared to neurological symptoms.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Instruct the client that it is necessary to take nothing but water with the medication:
Risedronate, a bisphosphonate used for osteoporosis, should be taken with a full glass of water on an empty stomach. The client should remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication to enhance absorption and reduce the risk of esophageal irritation. Milk and other beverages can interfere with the absorption of the medication.
B. Withhold the medication until the client's breakfast tray is available on the unit:
This would delay the medication unnecessarily. Risedronate should be taken on an empty stomach to ensure proper absorption.
C. Consult with a pharmacist about scheduling the dose one hour after the client eats:
This is not appropriate as risedronate should be taken on an empty stomach to ensure maximum absorption. Consulting a pharmacist in this context may lead to a misunderstanding of the medication's administration requirements.
D. Assign an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to bring the client a glass of low fat milk:
Offering milk with risedronate is inappropriate as it interferes with the medication’s absorption. The client should only take the medication with water.
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