The nurse administers atenolol 50 mg PO bid to a client who has coronary artery disease. The nurse understands that the therapeutic effect of this medication for this client is to:

Choice A reason: It is not the best intervention to exclude the family from the exercise program. Family involvement can provide support, motivation, and accountability for the client. Family members can also participate in the exercise program and benefit from its positive effects on blood pressure and overall health.

Choice B reason: This is the best intervention to help the client maintain the exercise program. Adapting the program to the client's needs and abilities ensures that the exercise is appropriate, safe, and effective for the client. It also increases the client's confidence, satisfaction, and adherence to the program.

Choice C reason: Providing the client with specific details of how to perform the exercises is an important intervention, but not the best one. The client may still have difficulties or barriers to maintaining the exercise program, such as lack of time, resources, or motivation. The nurse should also assess the client's readiness, preferences, and goals for the exercise program.

Choice D reason: Reassuring the client that they will be able to do the exercise program is a supportive intervention, but not the best one. The client may not feel reassured if the exercise program is too challenging, unrealistic, or unappealing for them. The nurse should also monitor the client's progress, feedback, and outcomes of the exercise program.

Choice A reason: Tinnitus is not a common or serious side effect of digoxin, a drug that strengthens the contraction of the heart and regulates the heart rhythm. ¹ Tinnitus is a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears that can be caused by many factors, such as ear infections, loud noises, or medications. ² However, digoxin is not known to cause tinnitus, and it is not a reason to call the healthcare provider.

Choice B reason: Constipation is not a common or serious side effect of digoxin. Digoxin does not affect the bowel function, and it is not a reason to call the healthcare provider. Constipation can be caused by many factors, such as dehydration, lack of fiber, or medications. ³ The client should drink plenty of fluids, eat high-fiber foods, and exercise regularly to prevent or relieve constipation.

Choice C reason: Visual disturbances are a common and serious side effect of digoxin, and they are a reason to call the healthcare provider. Digoxin can cause changes in vision, such as blurred vision, yellow or green halos around objects, or seeing spots or flashes. ¹ These are signs of digoxin toxicity, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the level of digoxin in the blood is too high. The client should report any visual disturbances to the healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Choice D reason: Vertigo is not a common or serious side effect of digoxin. Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or losing balance that can be caused by many factors, such as inner ear problems, head injuries, or medications. However, digoxin is not known to cause vertigo, and it is not a reason to call the healthcare provider.