A nurse is administering nicardipine to a client who has a BP of 180/120 mm Hg. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Check for orthostatic hypertension.
Assist the client to make lifestyle changes.
Instruct the client to restrict sodium intake.
Monitor the client's BP every 5 minutes.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Check for orthostatic hypotension. While important, checking for orthostatic hypotension is not the priority action in a hypertensive emergency, where rapid blood pressure reduction is necessary.
B. Assist the client to make lifestyle changes. Assisting the client with lifestyle changes is part of long-term blood pressure management but is not a priority action when administering nicardipine for acute hypertension.
C. Instruct the client to restrict sodium intake. Sodium restriction is a key component of managing hypertension but is not the priority action during an acute hypertensive crisis.
D. Monitor the client's BP every 5 minutes. In a hypertensive crisis, frequent monitoring of the client’s blood pressure is essential to ensure the medication is lowering blood pressure safely and effectively.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "I will sit on the side of the bed before I stand up." Propranolol can cause orthostatic hypotension, so the client should sit on the edge of the bed before standing to avoid dizziness or falls. This statement shows correct understanding.
B. "I should weigh myself on the same day once a week." Clients taking propranolol, especially if they have heart failure, should weigh themselves daily to monitor for fluid retention. Weekly weighing is insufficient for identifying early signs of worsening heart failure.
C. "I should expect to develop a slight cough while taking this medication." A cough is more commonly associated with ACE inhibitors (such as lisinopril) rather than beta-blockers like propranolol. This statement indicates a misunderstanding.
D. "I will not take my medicine if my heart rate is greater than 70/min." Beta-blockers like propranolol are typically withheld if the heart rate is below 60 beats per minute, not when it is greater than 70. This statement shows a misunderstanding of when to hold the medication.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Popliteal: Checking the popliteal pulse bilaterally is generally safe, as it does not carry the risk of compromising blood flow to the brain.
B. Brachial: Checking the brachial pulse bilaterally is safe and does not compromise circulation to vital organs.
C. Femoral: The femoral pulse can be checked bilaterally without causing significant issues.
D. Carotid: Checking the carotid pulse bilaterally can reduce blood flow to the brain and lead to syncope (fainting), so it should be avoided. Palpating one carotid artery at a time is the correct approach.
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