A client has been prescribed nifedipine for angina. What is the priority assessment for the nurse to make prior to giving this medication?
Sulfa allergy
aPTT
Hemoglobin
Blood pressure
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: This choice is incorrect because sulfa allergy is not a priority assessment for the nurse to make prior to giving nifedipine. Sulfa allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction to drugs that contain sulfonamide, such as antibiotics, diuretics, or antidiabetic agents. Sulfa allergy can cause symptoms such as rash, itching, fever, or anaphylaxis. Nifedipine does not contain sulfonamide and does not cross-react with sulfa drugs. The nurse should ask the client about any drug allergies and document them, but sulfa allergy is not relevant to nifedipine.
Choice B reason: This choice is incorrect because aPTT is not a priority assessment for the nurse to make prior to giving nifedipine. aPTT stands for activated partial thromboplastin time, which is a measure of how long it takes the blood to clot. It is used to monitor the effect of anticoagulant drugs, such as heparin, that prevent blood clots. Nifedipine does not affect the blood clotting time and does not interact with anticoagulant drugs. The nurse should check the aPTT only if the client is taking anticoagulant drugs and has signs of bleeding or clotting.
Choice C reason: This choice is incorrect because hemoglobin is not a priority assessment for the nurse to make prior to giving nifedipine. Hemoglobin is a protein in the red blood cells that carries oxygen to the tissues and organs of the body. Hemoglobin levels can be affected by conditions such as anemia, dehydration, or blood loss. Nifedipine does not affect the hemoglobin levels or the oxygen delivery. The nurse should monitor the hemoglobin levels and the signs of anemia, such as fatigue, pallor, or shortness of breath, but they are not related to nifedipine.
Choice D reason: This choice is correct because blood pressure is the priority assessment for the nurse to make prior to giving nifedipine. Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker that lowers blood pressure and relaxes the blood vessels. It is used to treat conditions such as hypertension, angina, and Raynaud's phenomenon. However, nifedipine can cause side effects such as hypotension (low blood pressure), dizziness, headache, flushing, and edema (swelling). The nurse should check the client's blood pressure before giving nifedipine and withhold the dose if the blood pressure is too low. The nurse should also monitor the client's blood pressure and the signs of hypotension, such as fainting, weakness, or chest pain.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This choice is incorrect because fluids should not be limited to 1000 mL daily for a client taking hydrochlorothiazide. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that causes the body to lose water and salt through urine. Limiting fluids can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and kidney damage. The client should drink enough fluids to prevent thirst and dry mouth, and follow the doctor's advice on fluid intake.
Choice B reason: This choice is incorrect because this medication is not best taken at night for a client taking hydrochlorothiazide. Hydrochlorothiazide can cause frequent urination, which can disrupt the sleep cycle and cause fatigue. The client should take this medication in the morning or at least 4 hours before bedtime to avoid nocturia (nighttime urination).
Choice C reason: This choice is incorrect because dairy products should not be avoided while on this medication for a client taking hydrochlorothiazide. Hydrochlorothiazide can lower the level of calcium in the blood, which can cause muscle weakness, cramps, and osteoporosis. Dairy products are a good source of calcium and can help prevent calcium deficiency. The client should consume adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D, and have their blood calcium level checked regularly.
Choice D reason: This choice is correct because the client should consume high potassium foods such as bananas and oranges while on this medication. Hydrochlorothiazide can lower the level of potassium in the blood, which can cause irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, and numbness. Potassium-rich foods can help prevent potassium deficiency and maintain normal heart and muscle function. The client should also have their blood potassium level checked regularly and avoid salt substitutes that contain potassium.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This choice is correct because it is the result of dividing the ordered dose (0.25 mg) by the strength of the tablet (250 mcg or 0.25 mg). The formula for calculating the number of tablets to be given is:
Tablets = Dose/ Strength
Therefore, the number of tablets to be given is:
Tablets = 0.25 mg/250 mcg = 0.25 mg/0.25 mg = 1
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