A nurse is discussing with a client who knows someone taking metoprolol for blood pressure management. The client inquires whether metoprolol would be suitable for her as well. Based on the client's medical record, which of the following should the nurse recognize as a contraindication to metoprolol?

Choice A reason : Setting a goal body weight within 25% of the ideal body weight can be misleading. The ideal body weight should be determined based on body mass index (BMI), considering the individual's height and weight. A BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 is considered normal.

Choice B reason : This is a general guideline for alcohol consumption, but for individuals with hypertension, it is often recommended to limit alcohol intake even further to help manage blood pressure

Choice C reason : This is a key recommendation for managing hypertension. Reducing sodium intake helps lower blood pressure and is a widely accepted guideline

Choice D reason : Monitoring potassium levels is crucial when taking thiazide diuretics because these medications can decrease potassium levels in the blood, leading to hypokalemia.

Choice A reason : This instruction is accurate because for a standard 12-lead ECG, electrodes are placed on the patient's chest and extremities to record the electrical activity of the heart. The placement of these electrodes is crucial for accurate readings and diagnosis. The electrodes do not emit electricity; they merely record and measure the electrical activity in your heart, providing essential information to the medical provider.

Choice B reason : Remaining still during an ECG is important to prevent artifacts that can interfere with the interpretation of the heart's electrical activity. Movement can cause the readings to be inaccurate, which is why patients are advised to remain still once the electrodes are in place.

Choice C reason : While the client might feel some pressure from the electrodes, the term 'tingling' is not accurate as the ECG is a painless procedure. The electrodes may cause mild irritation upon the skin, but there is otherwise no sensation associated with the test itself.

Choice D reason : The duration of the test is indeed short, typically only a few minutes, but this is not the primary instruction. The nurse should first inform the client about the electrode placement, which is essential for the procedure. The ECG will only take a few minutes in total once the procedure is underway, not counting equipment set-up time.