A nurse is obtaining vital signs for a client who has been taking propranolol. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an adverse effect of the medication?
Respiratory rate 24/min
Oral temperature 38.9° C (102° F)
Blood pressure 118/78 mm Hg
Apical pulse 50/min
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. A respiratory rate of 24/min is elevated and may suggest respiratory distress, but it is not a specific adverse effect of propranolol.
B. An oral temperature of 38.9° C (102° F) indicates fever, which is not a typical adverse effect of propranolol.
C. A blood pressure of 118/78 mm Hg is within normal limits and does not indicate an adverse effect of propranolol, which is often used to manage hypertension.
D. An apical pulse of 50/min indicates bradycardia, a known adverse effect of propranolol, which can occur due to its action on the heart rate.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "Remove the patch for two to four hours daily.": This is incorrect because transdermal nitroglycerin patches should be worn continuously for 24 hours, with a scheduled time to remove them (usually overnight) to prevent tolerance.
B. "Apply a new patch each day after waking up.": This instruction is correct; clients should apply a new patch daily to ensure continuous therapeutic effects while also allowing a break to reduce tolerance.
C. "Cover the patch with plastic wrap.": This is incorrect; covering the patch with plastic wrap can alter the absorption of the medication and is not necessary.
D. "Replace the existing patch with a new patch as soon as anginal pain begins.": This is incorrect; clients should not replace the patch immediately for angina. Instead, they should use sublingual nitroglycerin for immediate relief and follow the prescribed patch schedule.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. A heart rate of 105/min is slightly elevated, but it does not require immediate intervention unless the client is symptomatic or has other concerning signs.
B. Infiltration of the peripheral IV requires immediate intervention, as it can lead to tissue damage and prevent the medication from being effectively delivered. The nurse should stop the infusion, assess the site, and take appropriate action.
C. Increased blood pressure is a common effect of dopamine administration and does not necessarily require urgent intervention unless it becomes critically high or is associated with other adverse symptoms.
D. Occasional PVCs can occur during dopamine infusion and can be monitored unless they become frequent or symptomatic; they typically do not require immediate intervention.