A patient newly admitted with pulmonary edema is due to receive several medications. Which medication should the nurse efore administration?

Choice A rationale
Diltiazem does not increase the contractile force of the heart. In fact, it is classified as a negative inotrope, meaning it decreases the force of heart contractions.
Choice B rationale
While diltiazem can affect heart rhythm, it does not specifically reduce heart palpitations. Its primary effect is to slow the heart rate and relax the blood vessels.
Choice C rationale
Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker used to manage cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension, chronic stable angina, atrial fibrillation, and Prinzmetal’s angina. It works by inhibiting the calcium influx into cardiac and vascular smooth muscle during depolarization. This results in vasodilation, or the widening of blood vessels, which can help decrease coronary artery spasms, a characteristic feature of Prinzmetal’s angina.
Choice D rationale
Diltiazem does not prevent the formation of plaque in the coronary arteries. It primarily acts to relax the blood vessels and slow the heart rate.

Choice A rationale
Advocating for a diet rich in saturated fats is not a recommended strategy to prevent cardiovascular disease. Saturated fats can raise the level of cholesterol in your blood and increase your risk of heart disease.
Choice B rationale
Recommending cessation of smoking is a crucial intervention to prevent cardiovascular disease. Chemicals in tobacco can damage the heart and blood vessels, leading to narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis), which can ultimately lead to a heart attack.
Choice C rationale
Regular blood pressure monitoring is important as high blood pressure is a significant risk factor for heart disease. Controlling blood pressure helps ensure that your heart is not working harder than it should be, which can prevent damage to your heart and arteries.
Choice D rationale
Regular cholesterol screenings are essential because high levels of cholesterol can lead to the buildup of plaques in your arteries, increasing your risk of heart disease.
Choice E rationale
Regular physical exercise helps control your weight and can reduce your chances of developing other conditions that may put a strain on your heart, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
Choice F rationale
Suggesting no more than 5 alcoholic drinks a day is not a recommended strategy to prevent cardiovascular disease. In fact, it is advised to limit alcohol intake as excessive drinking can lead to high blood pressure, heart failure, or even stroke.