A nurse is caring for a client who is prescribed amiodarone for the treatment of arrhythmias. Which of the following should the nurse monitor for as an adverse effect of this medication? (Select all that apply)

This can help to elevate the chest and open up the airways, reducing shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.Propranolol is a beta blocker that can cause side effects such as slower heart rate, fatigue, dizziness, cold hands and feet, and Raynaud’s phenomenon. These side effects can worsen breathing problems, especially when lying down flat.

Choice B is wrong because sleeping on the left side may not be enough to improve breathing.It may also cause more pressure on the heart and lungs, which can affect blood circulation and oxygen delivery.

Choice C is wrong because sleeping on the right side may not be helpful for breathing either.Some research suggests that sleeping on the right side can make breathing more difficult for some people with obstructive sleep apnea.

Choice D is wrong because sleeping on the back can increase snoring, sleep apnea, and reflux symptoms, which can all interfere with breathing.Sleeping on the back can also cause the tongue and soft palate to block the airway, reducing oxygen intake.

Quinidine is an antiarrhythmic medication that can cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) as an adverse effect. Potassium is an electrolyte that is important for the normal functioning of the heart and muscles.Hypokalemia can cause arrhythmias, muscle weakness, cramps, and fatigue.

Choice A is wrong because quinidine does not cause hypertension (high blood pressure).In fact, quinidine can lower blood pressure by dilating blood vessels and reducing the force of heart contractions.Normal blood pressure ranges are less than 120/80 mm Hg for systolic and diastolic pressures, respectively.

Choice B is wrong because quinidine does not cause hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels).Quinidine does not affect insulin secretion or glucose metabolism.Normal blood glucose ranges are 70 to 99 mg/dL (3.9 to 5.5 mmol/L) before meals and less than 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L) two hours after meals.

Choice D is wrong because quinidine does not cause hypernatremia (high sodium levels).Quinidine does not affect sodium balance or excretion. Sodium is another electrolyte that is important for fluid balance, nerve impulses, and muscle contractions.Hypernatremia can cause thirst, confusion, seizures, and coma.Normal sodium ranges are 135 to 145 mEq/L (135 to 145 mmol/L).