A nurse is caring for a client who has developed a heart rate of 38/min and reports tremors and feeling faint. Which of the following medications should the nurse anticipate administering?
Magnesium sulfate
Digoxin
Atropine sulfate
Diltiazem
The Correct Answer is C
This is because the client is experiencing bradycardia, which is a slow heart rate of less than 60/min. Bradycardia can cause decreased cardiac output, which can lead to symptoms such as tremors, fainting, dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and hypotension. Some causes of bradycardia are sinus node dysfunction, atrioventricular block, medication side effects, hypothyroidism, hypothermia, and increased vagal tone.
The nurse should anticipate administering atropine sulfate, which is an anticholinergic drug that blocks the action of the vagus nerve on the heart and increases the heart rate and conduction. Atropine sulfate is the first-line drug for symptomatic bradycardia and can be given intravenously or intramuscularly. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs, cardiac rhythm, and response to the medication. The nurse should also prepare for other interventions, such as transcutaneous pacing or permanent pacemaker insertion, if atropine sulfate is ineffective or contraindicated.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should obtain a blood pressure reading using only the left extremity from a client who has a right upper extremity arteriovenous fistula. An arteriovenous fistula is a surgical connection between an artery and a vein that is created for hemodialysis access.
Measuring blood pressure on the arm with an arteriovenous fistula can cause damage to the fistula, reduce blood flow, and increase the risk of infection or thrombosis. Therefore, blood pressure should be measured on the opposite arm or on another site such as the leg.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Applying an ice pack to the client's knee can help reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain after a total knee arthroplasty. The nurse should avoid placing pillows under the client's knee, as this can cause flexion contractures and impair mobility and healing. Massaging or manipulating the incision site can increase pain and risk of infection or bleeding. Range-of-motion exercises are important for recovery, but they should be done with caution and under supervision, not when the client is experiencing severe pain.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today