A client receiving mechanical ventilation has a pH of 7.26, PaCO2 of 68 mm Hg, and a PaO2 of 92 mm Hg. Which intervention should the nurse implement?

Choice A rationale:

This statement is incorrect. Antihypertensive drugs typically work by reducing blood pressure through various mechanisms, such as dilating blood vessels, reducing blood volume, or affecting the heart's workload. They do not increase blood flow to the heart and kidneys.

Choice B rationale:

This is the correct answer. Antihypertensive drugs work by affecting different aspects of the cardiovascular system, such as reducing blood vessel constriction (vasodilation), decreasing blood volume, or slowing the heart rate. By affecting these components, they can lower blood pressure.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is incorrect. Antihypertensive drugs can interact with other medications or supplements, potentially causing adverse effects or drug interactions. It's essential for the client to inform their healthcare provider of all medications and supplements they are taking to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is incorrect. Antihypertensive drugs do not cure hypertension but help control it. Clients need to understand that they will likely need to take these medications long-term to manage their blood pressure effectively.

Choice A rationale:

4012 mg/day is not the correct answer. To calculate the maximum safe dosage of valproic acid, you need to convert the client's weight from pounds to kilograms. The client's weight in kilograms can be calculated by dividing the weight in pounds by 2.2. Therefore, 176 pounds divided by 2.2 equals 80 kilograms. The maximum safe dosage is 60 mg/kg/day, so 60 mg multiplied by 80 kg equals 4800 mg/day.

Choice B rationale:

Step 1: Convert the client’s weight from pounds to kilograms. We know that 1 kg is approximately equal to 2.2 pounds. So, we have:

176 pounds ÷ 2.2 = 80 kg (approximately)

Step 2: Calculate the maximum safe dosage for the client. We know that the maximum safe dosage of valproic acid is 60 mg/kg/day. So, we have:

60 mg/kg/day × 80 kg = 4800 mg/day

So, the maximum safe dosage for a client who weighs 176 pounds is4800 mg/day.

Choice C rationale:

3520 mg/day is not the correct answer. It does not accurately calculate the maximum safe dosage based on the client's weight.

Choice D rationale:

6171 mg/day is not the correct answer. It is significantly higher than the correct calculation and would exceed the maximum safe dosage for the client's weight.