The nurse is caring for a client following a myocardial infarction (MI) and prescribed asprin 325mg PO daily. Which of following effects of this medication would this client benefit from following a MI?
Inhibits platelet aggregation
Anti-inflammatory properties
Antiemetic
Anti-pyretic
The Correct Answer is A
A) Inhibits platelet aggregation: The primary benefit of aspirin following a myocardial infarction (MI) is its ability to inhibit platelet aggregation. By preventing platelets from clumping together, aspirin reduces the risk of further clot formation, which is critical in preventing additional cardiac events and improving overall cardiovascular outcomes.
B) Anti-inflammatory properties: While aspirin does have anti-inflammatory effects, this is not the primary reason it is prescribed after an MI. The focus in the post-MI setting is on its role in preventing clot formation rather than addressing inflammation.
C) Antiemetic: Aspirin is not an antiemetic and does not alleviate nausea or vomiting. Clients experiencing gastrointestinal issues or nausea would require different medications for those symptoms.
D) Anti-pyretic: Although aspirin can reduce fever, this effect is not the primary concern in the post-MI setting. The immediate goal is to improve heart health and prevent further thrombotic events, making platelet inhibition the most relevant benefit.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Pancytopenia: While some medications can cause pancytopenia, it is not a common or direct side effect of alteplase. This condition involves a reduction in red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, and is not typically associated with thrombolytics.
B) Hypertension: Alteplase is not known to cause hypertension. In fact, the goal of administering alteplase in the context of a pulmonary embolism is to dissolve the clot and restore normal blood flow, which may help stabilize blood pressure.
C) Hypokalemia: This condition, characterized by low potassium levels, is not a common side effect of alteplase. There are other medications that may cause electrolyte imbalances, but alteplase itself is not typically linked to hypokalemia.
D) Internal bleeding: This is a significant risk associated with alteplase, as it is a thrombolytic agent that dissolves clots. The nurse should closely monitor for signs of internal bleeding, such as changes in vital signs, unexplained bruising, or blood in urine or stool. This is the most critical side effect to assess for in a client receiving alteplase
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Losartan (Cozaar): This medication is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) and is often used as an alternative for patients who experience a cough due to ACE inhibitors. Unlike ACE inhibitors, ARBs do not typically cause a cough because they do not affect bradykinin levels, making losartan an appropriate choice for managing hypertension without the adverse effect of a persistent cough.
B) Hydralazine HCL (Apresoline): While hydralazine is an antihypertensive, it works through a different mechanism (direct vasodilation) and is not a first-line alternative for patients with a history of ACE inhibitor-induced cough. It's generally used in specific situations, such as severe hypertension or heart failure.
C) Furosemide (Lasix): This is a loop diuretic primarily used for conditions like heart failure or edema, rather than for the management of hypertension alone. It does not address the underlying hypertension in the same manner as ACE inhibitors or ARBs.
D) Metoprolol (Lopressor): This is a beta-blocker that can be used for hypertension, but it does not directly address the issue of cough related to ACE inhibitors. Switching to a beta-blocker may not be the best option if the client is specifically seeking to avoid the cough associated with ACE inhibitors.