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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it typically does not cause noticeable symptoms until it has already caused damage to target organs such as the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, or brain. It is crucial for the client to understand that even if they do not experience symptoms, untreated or poorly controlled hypertension can lead to serious complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, and more.
While dietary changes and increasing physical activity are important lifestyle modifications for managing hypertension, it is not accurate to state that most people can control their blood pressure through these measures alone. Hypertension is a complex condition influenced by multiple factors, and many individuals require additional interventions, such as medication, to effectively manage their blood pressure.
Annual blood pressure checks are indeed important to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and ensure that blood pressure remains within the target range. However, this information is secondary to the understanding that hypertension is typically asymptomatic until target organ damage occurs.
Recognizing the potential risks associated with untreated or uncontrolled hypertension can motivate the client to adhere to their treatment plan and make necessary lifestyle changes.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
While it is generally recommended to avoid close or prolonged exposure to strong magnetic fields, such as those generated by MRI machines, placing items that generate magnetic fields over the pacemaker/ICD, such as cell phones or certain medical devices, does not typically pose a risk. Therefore, it would be important for the nurse to clarify the client's understanding and provide accurate information about the precautions related to magnetic fields.
The other statements made by the client are generally correct and align with the typical recommendations for individuals with pacemakers/ICDs:
Avoiding contact sports or lifting heavy objects for a specified period of time after pacemaker/ICD insertion is usually advised to allow for proper healing and to reduce the risk of lead dislodgment or damage to the device.
Informing dentists and healthcare providers about the presence of a pacemaker/ICD is important so that they can take appropriate precautions during procedures or treatments that may involve electromagnetic interference or interfere with the device's functioning.
While it is generally advised to avoid close proximity to strong magnetic fields, such as those in airports or certain household appliances, it does not necessarily mean completely avoiding them. The nurse can clarify the specific recommendations regarding metal detectors at airports and the safe use of household appliances.
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