A client presents to the healthcare setting and ordered verapamil to treat his hypertension. Which assessment finding by the nurse would determine if the medication should be held?
Pulse oximetry of 92%
Pulse of 78
Respiratory rate of 12
History of a myocardial infarction a week ago
The Correct Answer is D
A) Pulse oximetry of 92%: While a pulse oximetry reading of 92% is slightly below normal, it is not a definitive reason to hold verapamil. This reading indicates mild hypoxemia, but it does not directly contraindicate the use of verapamil. Other factors should be considered before making a decision based solely on this value.
B) Pulse of 78: A pulse rate of 78 beats per minute is within the normal range for adults and does not warrant holding verapamil. This finding alone does not indicate any immediate concerns related to the administration of the medication.
C) Respiratory rate of 12: A respiratory rate of 12 breaths per minute is within the normal range for adults. This finding does not provide any indication that verapamil should be withheld. It is important to consider other clinical factors when assessing the appropriateness of medication administration.
D) History of myocardial infarction a week ago: Verapamil, a calcium channel blocker, can have significant effects on cardiac function. Administering it to a client who recently experienced a myocardial infarction (heart attack) could exacerbate cardiac issues and lead to complications. Therefore, it is crucial to hold the medication and consult with the healthcare provider before proceeding.
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Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A) Angioedema: Quinapril, an ACE inhibitor, can cause angioedema, which is a serious allergic reaction characterized by swelling of the deeper layers of the skin. This side effect is critical to monitor, as it can lead to airway obstruction.
B) Dry non-productive cough: A persistent dry cough is a well-known side effect of ACE inhibitors like quinapril. This occurs due to the accumulation of bradykinin and can be bothersome enough to require discontinuation of the medication.
C) Hyperkalemia: Quinapril can lead to increased potassium levels in the blood, a condition known as hyperkalemia. This is due to the drug's mechanism of action, which reduces aldosterone secretion, leading to decreased potassium excretion.
D) First dose phenomenon: This refers to a significant drop in blood pressure following the first dose of an ACE inhibitor, which can lead to dizziness or fainting. Patients are often advised to take the first dose at bedtime to minimize this risk.
E) Hypotension: Quinapril can cause hypotension, particularly after the initial dosing or in patients who are dehydrated or on diuretics. It’s important for patients to be aware of this potential side effect.
F) Hypertension: Quinapril is used to treat hypertension, so it is not a side effect associated with this medication. Instead, the goal of treatment is to lower blood pressure, making this option incorrect.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Heparin induced thrombocytopenia (HIT): Argatroban is an indirect thrombin inhibitor specifically used for anticoagulation in patients with HIT. This condition involves a significant drop in platelet counts due to heparin therapy, and argatroban is an appropriate alternative for preventing thrombosis in these patients.
B) Ventricular Dysfunction: While managing anticoagulation may be important in patients with ventricular dysfunction, this condition does not specifically necessitate the use of argatroban. Other anticoagulants may be used based on the clinical situation.
C) Myocardial infarction: Although anticoagulation may be warranted in the setting of a myocardial infarction, argatroban is not specifically indicated for this condition. Other antithrombotic therapies, such as aspirin or heparin, are more commonly used.
D) Hepatotoxicity: Argatroban is metabolized in the liver, so caution is warranted in patients with liver dysfunction. Hepatotoxicity itself would not be a reason to use argatroban; rather, it may require close monitoring or adjustment of dosage.