The charge nurse observes a new registered nurse (RN) doing discharge teaching for a client with hypertension who has a new prescription for enalapril (Vasotec). Which statement of the nurse to the patient would require the charge nurse's intervention?
"Make an appointment with the dietitian for teaching.”
"Check your blood pressure at home at least once a day." C. "Increase your dietary intake of high-potassium foods.”
"Move slowly when moving from lying to sitting to standing.”
"Move slowly when moving from lying to sitting to standing.”
The Correct Answer is C
Enalapril (Vasotec) is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor medication commonly used to treat hypertension. One of the potential side effects of ACE inhibitors is hyperkalemia, which is an elevated level of potassium in the blood. Therefore, it is generally recommended for patients taking ACE inhibitors to avoid excessive intake of high-potassium foods.
The charge nurse should intervene because advising the client to increase their dietary intake of high-potassium foods contradicts the precautions associated with taking enalapril. Consuming high-potassium foods while taking this medication can potentially lead to an increased risk of hyperkalemia, which can have serious health consequences.
Let's review the other statements made by the nurse:
"Make an appointment with the dietitian for teaching": This is an appropriate statement as it encourages the client to seek professional guidance on dietary management of hypertension. A dietitian can provide valuable information on healthy eating habits and strategies to reduce blood pressure.
"Check your blood pressure at home at least once a day": This is also an appropriate statement as it promotes self-monitoring of blood pressure, which is important for clients with hypertension. Regular monitoring helps the client track their progress and detect any changes that may require medical attention.
"Move slowly when moving from lying to sitting to standing": This is a correct statement as it advises the client to practice orthostatic precautions. ACE inhibitors, including enalapril, can cause orthostatic hypotension, a drop in blood pressure upon standing. Moving slowly can help prevent dizziness and falls.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Based on the information provided, an Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) of 0.89 indicates a mild reduction in blood flow to the lower extremities, suggesting peripheral arterial disease (PAD). In this case, the nurse should educate the client about the use of compression stockings.
Compression stockings are a conservative management approach for peripheral arterial disease. They help improve blood flow and alleviate symptoms by applying pressure to the legs, promoting venous return, and reducing swelling. Educating the client about the use of compression stockings can help improve circulation and manage symptoms such as pain, cramping, and fatigue.
Let's review the other options and explain why they are not the most appropriate interventions in this scenario:
Document the information as a normal finding: An ABI of 0.89 indicates an abnormal finding suggestive of peripheral arterial disease. It should not be documented as a normal finding, as it requires further assessment and intervention.
Prepare the client for an arterial bypass: An arterial bypass is a surgical intervention that is typically reserved for more severe cases of peripheral arterial disease. With an ABI of 0.89, which indicates mild reduction in blood flow, arterial bypass is not the first-line intervention. Conservative measures and medical management are usually recommended initially.
Anticipate a prescription for clopidogrel and simvastatin: Medications like clopidogrel (antiplatelet) and simvastatin (statin) may be prescribed for peripheral arterial disease. However, the next appropriate step after obtaining an ABI of 0.89 would be to educate the client about the use of compression stockings as a conservative management option before considering medication therapy.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Pain level of 10 out of 10: Severe pain can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and result in an increased heart rate.
Temperature 101.9°F: Fever can lead to an elevated heart rate as the body's response to infection or inflammation.
Hemoglobin: 7 g/dL: Low hemoglobin levels, known as anemia, can cause the heart to pump faster in an attempt to compensate for the decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
Cocaine abuse: Cocaine is a stimulant drug that can significantly increase heart rate and cause tachycardia.
The following clinical finding would not typically be associated with tachycardia:
Blood glucose 90 mg/dL: While low or high blood glucose levels can cause symptoms, they are not directly associated with tachycardia unless they lead to significant physiological stress or hormonal imbalances.
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