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. A systolic murmur: A murmur heard between S1 and S2 occurs during systole, which is why it is classified as a systolic murmur. Systolic murmurs are often due to valve abnormalities like aortic stenosis or mitral regurgitation.
B. A third heart sound (S3): The S3 sound occurs after S2, not between S1 and S2. It is associated with rapid ventricular filling and may indicate heart failure.
C. A fourth heart sound (S4): The S4 sound occurs before S1, not between S1 and S2. It is associated with a stiff or hypertrophic ventricle.
D. An expected heart sound: A murmur is not considered an expected heart sound; it is typically abnormal and requires further investigation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Count the apical pulsations for a full minute. The apical pulse should be counted for a full minute to ensure accuracy, especially in clients taking cardiovascular medications, as these may affect heart rhythm and rate.
B. Place the stethoscope just under the mid-clavicular area of the left chest. The apical pulse is typically located at the fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line, not directly under the clavicle.
C. Press the stethoscope firmly against the client's skin. While the stethoscope needs to be in full contact with the skin, excessive pressure is not necessary and may distort the sound.
D. Check the apical pulse with a Doppler device. A Doppler is typically used when the pulse is difficult to palpate or auscultate, not as a first-line method for checking the apical pulse.
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