A nurse is caring for a client due for their dose of carvedilol (Coreg). The nurse completes vital signs prior to administration of the medication. Which vital sign would be an indication to hold the dose scheduled and notify the healthcare provider?
Blood pressure 102/76
Temperature of 100.3 F
Respiratory rate 10
Heart rate of 49
The Correct Answer is D
A) Blood pressure 102/76: While this blood pressure reading is on the lower side, it does not typically warrant withholding carvedilol unless the client exhibits symptoms of hypotension, such as dizziness or fainting. Carvedilol is an antihypertensive, but the reading itself is not critically low enough to necessitate holding the medication.
B) Temperature of 100.3 F: A mild fever at this temperature does not directly relate to carvedilol administration. It may indicate an underlying infection or inflammation, but it is not a contraindication for administering the medication. Monitoring the client’s temperature is important, but it does not require notifying the healthcare provider in this context.
C) Respiratory rate 10: A respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute indicates bradypnea, which can be concerning. However, it is not the primary reason to withhold carvedilol unless the client shows significant respiratory distress. Monitoring is essential, but the decision to withhold the medication would depend on the overall clinical picture.
D) Heart rate of 49: A heart rate of 49 bpm is considered bradycardia and is a significant concern when administering carvedilol, a beta-blocker that can further decrease heart rate. It is essential to hold the medication and notify the healthcare provider, as this bradycardia could lead to potential adverse effects or complications. Monitoring the client's heart rate is crucial in managing their medication safely.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "For confirmed diagnosis of hypertension, the BP readings should be higher than normal on 2 or more separate occasions.": This statement accurately reflects the criteria for diagnosing hypertension. According to guidelines, a diagnosis is typically confirmed when blood pressure readings consistently exceed normal levels (usually defined as 130/80 mm Hg) on two or more separate visits.
B. "For confirmed diagnosis of hypertension, BP readings should be lower than normal on only one occasion.": This statement is incorrect. A single low reading does not confirm a diagnosis of hypertension. In fact, it contradicts the concept of hypertension, which involves consistently high readings.
C. "For confirmed diagnosis of hypertension, BP readings should be higher than normal on more than three separate occasions.": This statement is misleading. While multiple readings are often taken, the threshold for diagnosis is two or more elevated readings, not three.
D. "For confirmed diagnosis of hypertension, the BP readings should be higher than normal on only one occasion.": This statement is inaccurate, as a single elevated reading is not sufficient for diagnosis. Consistent elevations over multiple occasions are necessary for a confirmed diagnosis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Within the expected reference range: While a blood pressure of 130/82 mm Hg is close to normal, it is not considered fully within the expected reference range. The normal range is typically defined as less than 120/80 mm Hg.
B. Elevated: The reading of 130/82 mm Hg falls into the "elevated" category, which is defined as systolic blood pressure between 120-129 mm Hg and diastolic pressure less than 80 mm Hg. This indicates that while the client is not hypertensive, they are at increased risk for developing hypertension in the future.
C. Stage 2 hypertension: This category is defined by a systolic reading of 140 mm Hg or higher, or a diastolic reading of 90 mm Hg or higher. The client’s reading does not meet these criteria, so this option is not applicable.
D. Stage 1 hypertension: Stage 1 hypertension is characterized by systolic readings between 130-139 mm Hg and diastolic readings between 80-89 mm Hg. Although the systolic reading is in the Stage 1 range, the diastolic reading of 82 mm Hg places the overall reading in the "elevated" category, rather than Stage 1 hypertension.