A client with a long-standing diagnosis of angina has been prescribed nitroglycerin and diltiazem. In addition to monitoring the client's heart rate, the nurse should prioritize what assessment?
Blood pressure
Level of consciousness
Daily weights
Respiratory status
The Correct Answer is A
A. Blood pressure is correct because both nitroglycerin and diltiazem can cause vasodilation, leading to hypotension; thus, monitoring blood pressure is crucial for patient safety.
B. Level of consciousness is incorrect; while important, it is not the primary concern in this context.
C. Daily weights are incorrect; they are more relevant for assessing fluid status over time, not immediate drug effects.
D. Respiratory status is incorrect; while monitoring is important, blood pressure takes precedence due to the risk of hypotension associated with these medications.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. heart rate is not the primary concern when assessing the interaction between NSAIDs and loop diuretics.
B. blood pressure is correct; the combination of an NSAID and a loop diuretic can lead to fluid retention, potentially elevating blood pressure. Monitoring blood pressure is crucial in this context.
C. cognition is not directly impacted by the combination of these medications.
D. assessment for signs of bleeding is important when taking NSAIDs due to their effect on platelet function, but the more immediate concern is the potential fluid retention affecting blood pressure.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While dietary intake is important, especially regarding sodium and fluid balance, it is not the highest priority compared to monitoring blood pressure.
B. Monitoring the client's blood pressure is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of the prescribed antihypertensive medications and to ensure the client is within the target range for managing her hypertension.
C. Weighing the client is important for monitoring fluid retention, especially with hydrochlorothiazide, but it is secondary to direct blood pressure monitoring.
D. Monitoring the respiratory rate is generally less critical in this scenario unless there are specific concerns related to medication side effects or respiratory conditions.