Nursing Elites

1. A client has a new prescription for atenolol. Which of the following findings should the nurse instruct the client to monitor for as an adverse effect of this medication?

• A. Tachycardia
• B. Hypoglycemia
• C. Bradycardia
• D. Hypertension

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Atenolol is a beta-blocker that works by slowing down the heart rate. An adverse effect of atenolol is bradycardia, characterized by a slower than normal heart rate. The nurse should instruct the client to monitor for signs of bradycardia, such as a slow heart rate, while taking atenolol. Therefore, the correct answer is to monitor for bradycardia. Tachycardia (Choice A) is not an expected adverse effect of atenolol as it actually reduces heart rate. Hypoglycemia (Choice B) is not a typical adverse effect of atenolol. Hypertension (Choice D) is not an adverse effect of atenolol, as atenolol is commonly used to manage hypertension.

2. A healthcare provider in a clinic is monitoring serum electrolytes for four older adult clients who take digoxin. Which of the following electrolyte values increases a client's risk for Digoxin toxicity?

• A. Calcium 9.2 mg/dL
• B. Calcium 10.3 mg/dL
• C. Potassium 3.4 mEq/L
• D. Potassium 4.8 mEq/L

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Potassium 3.4 mEq/L is below the expected reference range, which increases the risk for digoxin toxicity. Low potassium levels can lead to fatal dysrhythmias, particularly in older clients taking Digoxin. Hypokalemia potentiates the effects of Digoxin, making the heart more sensitive to its toxic effects. Monitoring and correcting electrolyte imbalances, especially low potassium levels, are crucial to prevent adverse effects of digoxin therapy. Calcium levels do not directly influence digoxin toxicity, so choices A and B are incorrect. High potassium levels, as in choice D, are less likely to increase the risk of digoxin toxicity compared to low potassium levels.

3. A client has a new prescription for Nitroglycerin to treat angina. Which of the following instructions should be included?

• A. Take this medication only when experiencing chest pain.
• B. Store the medication in a cool, dry place.
• C. Apply the patch to a different site each time.
• D. Do not cut the patch regardless of your blood pressure.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When using Nitroglycerin patches to treat angina, it is crucial to apply the patch to a different site each time. This practice helps prevent skin irritation and ensures proper absorption of the medication, optimizing its effectiveness in managing angina symptoms.

4. A client has a new prescription for Ranitidine. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take the medication with an antacid.
• B. Avoid drinking coffee while taking this medication.
• C. Take the medication at bedtime.
• D. Stop the medication if you develop a headache.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed Ranitidine is to take the medication at bedtime. Ranitidine is best taken at bedtime as it helps decrease the production of stomach acid during the night, providing optimal relief for conditions like heartburn or acid indigestion.

5. When a nurse assesses a client's IV catheter insertion site and notes a hematoma, which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.)

• A. Stop the infusion.
• B. Apply alcohol to the insertion site.
• C. Apply warm compresses to the insertion site.
• D. Elevate the client's arm.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a nurse detects a hematoma at the IV catheter insertion site, applying warm compresses is beneficial as it can promote healing by enhancing circulation and reducing swelling. Elevating the client's arm helps in reducing edema, which can relieve pressure, pain, and further bleeding in the hematoma area. Stopping the infusion may be necessary in certain situations, but it is not a standard action for all hematoma cases. Applying alcohol to the insertion site is discouraged as it can cause irritation and may not aid in resolving the hematoma.

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