A nurse administered nitroglycerin sublingually to a client who has angina pectoris and experienced chest pain.
The client states that his chest pain is relieved but now he has a headache.
Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?
"A headache indicates tolerance to the medication.”.
"It sounds as if you are allergic to this medication.”.
"A headache is a common adverse effect of this medication, but it will probably occur less often over time.”.
"Your headache is probably a result of anxiety about the chest pain.”.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Tolerance to nitroglycerin is not indicated by the presence of a headache. Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator used to relieve angina, and headaches can be a common side effect.
Choice B rationale:
Allergic reactions to nitroglycerin are rare, and a headache is not a typical symptom of an allergy to this medication.
Choice C rationale:
"A headache is a common adverse effect of this medication, but it will probably occur less often over time.”. This is the correct response. Nitroglycerin commonly causes headaches due to its vasodilatory effects. Patients often experience this side effect initially, but it tends to improve or occur less frequently with continued use. The nurse should educate the client about this and reassure them that the headaches should diminish over time.
Choice D rationale:
Anxiety may exacerbate chest pain, but it is not the likely cause of the headache. It is important to address the headache as a potential side effect of the medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Hypovolemic shock is characterized by a decrease in blood volume, leading to low blood pressure and compensatory mechanisms such as a high pulse rate. When the body experiences a significant loss of blood or fluid, it attempts to maintain perfusion to vital organs by increasing the heart rate to ensure an adequate blood supply. Low blood pressure and a high pulse rate are classic signs of hypovolemic shock.
Choice B rationale:
A low BP and low pulse rate are not indicative of hypovolemic shock. Hypovolemic shock is associated with a rapid and weak pulse rate as the body tries to compensate for decreased blood volume. A low pulse rate could suggest other conditions, such as bradycardia, rather than hypovolemic shock.
Choice C rationale:
High BP and high pulse rate are not typical findings in hypovolemic shock. Hypovolemic shock is characterized by low blood pressure and a high pulse rate as the body attempts to compensate for the reduced blood volume. High blood pressure is more commonly associated with conditions like hypertension, not hypovolemic shock.
Choice D rationale:
High BP and low pulse rate are not consistent with the characteristics of hypovolemic shock. As mentioned earlier, hypovolemic shock is marked by low blood pressure and a high pulse rate due to the body's efforts to maintain adequate perfusion. High blood pressure and a low pulse rate may suggest other medical conditions unrelated to hypovolemic shock.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administer IV morphine. Administering IV morphine may be necessary for pain management in a client with a pulmonary embolism. However, pain relief should not take precedence over ensuring the patient's oxygenation and cardiovascular stability. Oxygen therapy is the top priority to address hypoxia and prevent further deterioration. Once oxygenation is secured, pain management can be considered.
Choice B rationale:
Start an IV infusion of lactated Ringer's. Initiating an IV infusion of lactated Ringer's solution may be important for maintaining hydration and electrolyte balance in a patient with a pulmonary embolism. However, this is not the top priority when a client is at risk of or experiencing a pulmonary embolism. Ensuring oxygenation and cardiovascular stability takes precedence. Once the patient is stable, intravenous fluids can be administered if needed.
Choice D rationale:
Initiate cardiac monitoring. Initiating cardiac monitoring is important in assessing the patient's cardiac rhythm and identifying any dysrhythmias or changes that may occur due to the pulmonary embolism. While this is a vital step, it is not the highest priority when the client is in a state of hypoxia and respiratory distress. Oxygen therapy should be the first intervention to address the immediate threat to the patient's life.
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