Order: Metoprolol 3.5 mg IV push

On hand: 1 mg/mL vials

How many milliliters will the nurse draw up to administer this dose?

Choice A reason: Maintaining a healthy weight is important for lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Obesity is associated with higher levels of LDL-cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol) and lower levels of HDL-cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol). Losing weight can improve these ratios and lower blood pressure. ¹

Choice B reason: Avoiding cigarettes and other nicotine products is essential for preventing cardiovascular disease. Smoking damages the blood vessels and increases the risk of atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Smoking also lowers HDL-cholesterol and raises triglycerides, another type of fat in the blood. Quitting smoking can improve cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart attack and stroke. ²

Choice C reason: Importance of regular exercise is another key factor for improving cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health. Exercise helps to lower LDL-cholesterol and raise HDL-cholesterol, as well as lower blood pressure and blood sugar. Exercise also strengthens the heart muscle and improves blood flow. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, or a combination of both. ³

Choice D reason: Positive stress management techniques are not directly related to cholesterol levels or statin medications, but they may have some benefits for cardiovascular health. Stress can increase blood pressure and heart rate, and may trigger unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, drinking, or overeating. Stress can also affect the immune system and inflammation, which may contribute to atherosclerosis. Learning to cope with stress in healthy ways, such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, or counseling, may help to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. ⁴

Choice E reason: Healthy low fat diet options are an important part of lowering cholesterol levels and preventing cardiovascular disease. A diet that is high in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol can raise LDL-cholesterol and lower HDL-cholesterol. A diet that is low in fat and high in fiber, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can lower LDL-cholesterol and raise HDL-cholesterol. Some foods, such as oats, nuts, soy, and fish, may have additional benefits for cholesterol levels. .

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because labetalol is a safe and effective medication for treating hypertension in pregnancy. Labetalol is a beta-blocker that lowers blood pressure by reducing the heart rate and the force of contraction. It does not affect the blood flow to the placenta or the fetus.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect because labetalol is not contraindicated for smokers. However, smoking is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and should be discouraged by the nurse. Smoking can increase blood pressure, heart rate, and the risk of blood clots.

Choice C reason: This is correct because labetalol is contraindicated for clients with a history of uncontrolled asthma. Labetalol is a non-selective beta-blocker that can block the beta-2 receptors in the lungs and cause bronchoconstriction. This can worsen asthma symptoms and trigger an asthma attack.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect because labetalol is a suitable medication for clients who had a myocardial infarction. Labetalol can prevent further damage to the heart muscle by reducing the oxygen demand and the workload of the heart. It can also prevent arrhythmias and angina.