A nurse is assessing a clie”t prior to administering atenolol. Which of the following findings should prompt the nurse to withhold the medication?
Respiratory rate 18/min
Oxygen saturation 95%
Heart rate 46/min
Blood pressure 160/94 mm Hg
The Correct Answer is C
A) Respiratory rate 18/min:
A respiratory rate of 18/min is within the normal range for adults and is not a contraindication for administering atenolol. This finding does not warrant withholding the medication.
B) Oxygen saturation 95%:
An oxygen saturation of 95% is within the normal range and does not indicate any acute respiratory compromise. It is not a contraindication for administering atenolol.
C) Heart rate 46/min:
A heart rate of 46/min is below the normal range (typically 60-100 beats per minute for adults). Atenolol is a beta-blocker that primarily acts to reduce heart rate and blood pressure. Administering atenolol to a client with bradycardia (heart rate less than 60/min) can further decrease heart rate and may lead to symptomatic bradycardia or heart block. Therefore, the nurse should withhold atenolol in this case and notify the healthcare provider.
D) Blood pressure 160/94 mm Hg:
A blood pressure of 160/94 mm Hg indicates hypertension (elevated blood pressure). While atenolol is often prescribed for the management of hypertension, this blood pressure reading alone does not warrant withholding the medication. However, the client's bradycardia (heart rate 46/min)’is a more immediate concern that requires action."
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Glaucoma:
While propranolol can exacerbate symptoms of glaucoma, it is not an absolute contraindication. However, caution is warranted in clients with glaucoma due to its potential to increase intraocular pressure.
B) Depression:
Propranolol is not contraindicated in clients with a history of depression. In fact, it is sometimes used to manage anxiety symptoms associated with certain types of depression.
C) Asthma:
Propranolol is contraindicated in clients with a history of asthma or bronchospasm because it can exacerbate bronchoconstriction and potentially precipitate an acute asthma attack.
D) Migraines:
Propranolol is often used prophylactically in clients with migraines to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. It is not contraindicated in clients with a history of migraines."
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Migraines:
Pseudoephedrine is not contraindicated for migraines. In fact, it is sometimes used in combination with other medications to alleviate symptoms of sinus congestion associated with migraines.
B) Diverticulitis:
Pseudoephedrine is not contraindicated for diverticulitis. However, it may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as abdominal discomfort or constipation, which could exacerbate symptoms in individuals with diverticulitis. Therefore, caution should be exercised when using pseudoephedrine in these clients.
C) Hypertension:
This is the correct answer. Pseudoephedrine is a sympathomimetic drug that can cause vasoconstriction and increase blood pressure. Therefore, it is contraindicated in clients with hypertension or cardiovascular disease, as it may exacerbate these conditions and increase the risk of adverse cardiovascular events such as hypertensive crisis or stroke.
D) Eczema:
Pseudoephedrine is not contraindicated for eczema. However, it may cause dryness of the skin and exacerbate existing dermatological conditions. Clients with eczema should use pseudoephedrine cautiously and monitor for any worsening of their skin condition.
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