A nurse caring for a client who has a new prescription for atenolol. For which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor the clients
Hypokalemia
Bradycardia
Anemia
Neutropenia
The Correct Answer is B
Atenolol is a beta-blocker medication commonly used to treat conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and certain heart rhythm disorders. One of the intended effects of atenolol is to lower the heart rate by blocking the action of adrenaline on beta receptors in the heart. However, this can sometimes result in bradycardia, which refers to a heart rate that is slower than the normal range.
Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, is not directly caused by atenolol but can be an indirect effect. Beta-blockers like atenolol can potentially interfere with the normal release of insulin and contribute to increased urinary excretion of potassium. Therefore, it's important to monitor potassium levels in clients taking atenolol, as low potassium levels can have adverse effects on various body systems.
Anemia and neutropenia are not typically associated with the use of atenolol. Anemia refers to a decrease in the number of red blood cells or a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the body tissues. Neutropenia refers to a decrease in the number of neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell involved in fighting infection.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Docusate is a stool softener commonly used to relieve constipation. Opioid pain medications often cause constipation as a side effect by slowing down bowel movements. Docusate helps by increasing the amount of water absorbed by the stool, making it softer and easier to pass.
The other options mentioned are not the primary therapeutic effects of docusate: Relief from nausea: Docusate is not typically prescribed for relief from nausea. Antiemetic medications are used to alleviate nausea and vomiting.
Decreased drowsiness: Docusate does not directly affect drowsiness. Its main action is on the stool consistency, not on alertness or drowsiness.
Decreased cancer pain: Docusate is not prescribed for pain relief. Opioids are generally used to manage cancer pain in this scenario.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
When the client experiences cramping during the enema administration, it indicates that the colon is becoming distended. By allowing the client to expel some of the fluid, the pressure in the colon is reduced, which can help alleviate the discomfort and cramping. The nurse should pause the administration of the enema and allow the client to release some fluid before continuing.
The other options mentioned are not appropriate or effective actions to relieve the client's discomfort:
Lowering the height of the solution container: Lowering the height of the solution container will decrease the force of the fluid flow but may not address the underlying cause of the cramping. Allowing the client to expel some fluid is a more appropriate intervention.
Stopping the enema and documenting that the client did not tolerate the procedure: While it is important to monitor the client's tolerance during the procedure, abruptly stopping the enema and documenting intolerance may not be necessary if the discomfort can be relieved by allowing the client to expel some fluid. The nurse should prioritize relieving the discomfort before deciding to stop the procedure.
Encouraging the client to bear down: Bearing down or pushing can increase intra-abdominal pressure and exacerbate the cramping. This action is not recommended in this situation.
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