The client diagnosed with acute heart failure is prescribed an infusion of dopamine at a low dose. Which assessment parameter should the nurse use to best evaluate the effectiveness of this medication?
Urine output has increased from 30 mL to 50 mL per hour
Blood pressure decreased from 140/80 to 90/50
Heart rate has increased from 80 to 110 beats per minute
Client is awake, alert and oriented to time, place and person
The Correct Answer is A
A. Dopamine at low doses primarily increases renal perfusion, which can lead to improved urine output. An increase in urine output is a key indicator that the medication is effectively improving kidney function and blood flow. This is the most direct way to assess its effectiveness.
B. A decrease in blood pressure is not an expected effect of low-dose dopamine, which should actually help improve perfusion and raise blood pressure.
C. An increase in heart rate is more likely with higher doses of dopamine and is not an optimal indicator of the drug's effectiveness for acute heart failure.
D. Client alertness is important but does not directly reflect the primary effects of dopamine on renal perfusion and cardiac output in acute heart failure.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Fluid intake may need to be regulated in heart failure patients, consuming 2500mL of fluids per day may be too high for some patients, depending on their condition and whether they are on fluid restriction. Fluid management should be individualized, and the provider should specify the amount based on the patient's condition.
B. A low-sodium diet is essential for heart failure patients to help reduce fluid retention, decrease blood pressure, and lessen the burden on the heart. The American Heart Association recommends a sodium intake of no more than 2,000-2,300 mg per day for heart failure patients.
C. Rapid weight gain is a sign of fluid retention, which can indicate worsening heart failure. A gain of 2-3 pounds in a single day or 5 pounds in a week should prompt the client to contact their healthcare provider for further evaluation.
D. Shortness of breath with minimal activity can be a sign of worsening heart failure or fluid overload. This symptom should be reported immediately to a healthcare provider for further evaluation and possible adjustments to treatment.
E. Furosemide (a diuretic) is often prescribed to reduce fluid retention but it should not be taken without proper guidance or as a response to symptoms without consulting the healthcare provider. Taking diuretics at the wrong time or in excessive amounts can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which could worsen the condition.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hypermagnesemia can cause bradycardia and hypotension, but it is less commonly associated with PVCs. This does not align with the lab results provided.
B. Hypocalcemia can cause arrhythmias, but it is not the most likely cause of PVCs in this case, considering other findings.
C. Hypokalemia (low potassium) is a known cause of PVCs. The patient's potassium level is 2.8 mEq/L, which is significantly low and most likely contributing to the PVCs.
D. Although hyperglycemia can affect cardiac function, it is less commonly linked to PVCs compared to electrolyte imbalances, such as hypokalemia.
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