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)

Verapamil is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers, which are used to treat high blood pressure, angina, and arrhythmias. Verapamil works by relaxing the blood vessels and slowing down the heart rate, which lowers blood pressure and reduces the workload of the heart. However, verapamil can also affect the smooth muscles of the digestive tract, causing them to contract less frequently and forcefully.This can lead to constipation, which is a common side effect of verapamil.

Choice A is wrong because verapamil does not cause hypertension, but rather lowers blood pressure.In fact, verapamil can sometimes cause hypotension, which is abnormally low blood pressure.

Choice B is wrong because verapamil does not cause hyperkalemia, which is a high level of potassium in the blood.Verapamil can actually lower potassium levels by increasing its excretion in the urine.Hyperkalemia can be caused by other medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), or potassium-sparing diuretics.

Choice C is wrong because verapamil does not cause hypoglycemia, which is a low level of glucose in the blood.Verapamil does not affect insulin secretion or glucose metabolism.Hypoglycemia can be caused by other medications, such as insulin or sulfonylureas, or by fasting, alcohol consumption, or exercise.

The normal ranges for blood pressure, potassium, and glucose are as follows:

• Blood pressure: less than 120/80 mm Hg (millimeters of mercury) when fasting and less than 140/90 mm Hg two hours after eating for people without diabetes; less than 130/80 mm Hg for people with diabetes.

• Potassium: 3.6 to 5.2 mmol/L (millimoles per liter) or 3.6 to 5.2 mEq/L (milliequivalents per liter).

• Glucose: less than 100 mg/d

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.