A nurse in a coronary care unit is admitting a patient who has had CPR following a cardiac arrest.

The patient is receiving lidocaine IV at 2 mg/min.
When the patient asks the nurse why he is receiving that medication, the nurse should explain that it has which of the following actions?

Smoking, Diabetes, Atherosclerosis, and Weak pedal pulses.

Factors that contribute to poor circulation to the limb include:

• Smoking: It can cause constriction and damage to the blood vessels, leading to poor circulation.
• Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, leading to poor circulation.
• Atherosclerosis: This is a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, narrowing them and reducing blood flow.
• Weak pedal pulses: This can be a sign of reduced blood flow to the lower extremities. A sodium-restricted diet (Choice B) is not typically associated with poor circulation.

Choice A rationale

Phosphate levels are not directly affected by spironolactone. Spironolactone is a potassium- sparing diuretic and does not typically affect phosphate levels.

Choice B rationale

Decreased potassium level is not typically expected in a patient taking spironolactone. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, meaning it can actually lead to increased potassium levels. However, in the context of liver failure and ascites, other factors may influence potassium levels.

Choice C rationale

Chloride levels are not directly affected by spironolactone. Spironolactone primarily affects the balance of potassium and sodium in the body.

Choice D rationale

Sodium levels could potentially be decreased in a patient taking spironolactone, as it can cause the body to lose sodium. However, in the context of liver failure and ascites, sodium levels are often carefully managed.