The nurse is administering nitroprusside by IV infusion for a client in hypertensive emergency. The nurse knows that the primary assessment will be:
Blood pressure due to the vasoconstriction action of this medication.
Intake/output due to the diuretic action of this medication.
Blood pressure due to the vasodilation action of this medication.
Peripheral pulses due to the vasoconstriction action of this medication.
The Correct Answer is C
Nitroprusside is a potent vasodilator medication used to rapidly reduce blood pressure in hypertensive emergencies. Its primary action is to dilate blood vessels, leading to a decrease in systemic vascular resistance and subsequent reduction in blood pressure.
Monitoring the client's blood pressure is crucial during the administration of nitroprusside to ensure that the medication is achieving the desired effect and that blood pressure is being appropriately controlled. The nurse will assess blood pressure frequently to adjust the infusion rate and titrate the medication to achieve the desired therapeutic effect while avoiding hypotension or other adverse effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Cushing's syndrome is a disorder characterized by excessive production or prolonged exposure to high levels of glucocorticoids, particularly cortisol. This can occur due to various reasons, such as the use of corticosteroid medications or overproduction of cortisol by the adrenal glands. Elevated glucocorticoid levels result in a variety of clinical manifestations associated with Cushing's syndrome, including weight gain, central obesity, muscle wasting, thinning of the skin, easy bruising, and impaired glucose metabolism.
It's important to note that Cushing's syndrome can have different underlying causes, such as adrenal tumors, pituitary tumors, or ectopic ACTH production. Regardless of the cause, the common feature in Cushing's syndrome is the excessive glucocorticoid levels, which contribute to the signs and symptoms of the condition.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that can cause a range of side effects, including fluid retention, electrolyte imbalance, and increased blood pressure. A blood pressure reading of 148/94 mm Hg indicates hypertension, which may be related to the use of prednisone. It is essential to report this finding to the health care provider as it may require further evaluation and management, such as adjusting the medication dosage or initiating additional treatments to control blood pressure. The other information provided, such as stopping the medication, ankle edema, and not taking prescribed vitamin D, is relevant but does not pose an immediate threat to the patient's health compared to uncontrolled hypertension.
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