The nurse is caring for a client who has been admitted with recurring migraine headaches.
To assess the quality of the client's pain experienced from the migraine headache, which approach should the nurse use?

Choice A rationale:

This statement is incorrect. Antihypertensive drugs typically work by reducing blood pressure through various mechanisms, such as dilating blood vessels, reducing blood volume, or affecting the heart's workload. They do not increase blood flow to the heart and kidneys.

Choice B rationale:

This is the correct answer. Antihypertensive drugs work by affecting different aspects of the cardiovascular system, such as reducing blood vessel constriction (vasodilation), decreasing blood volume, or slowing the heart rate. By affecting these components, they can lower blood pressure.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is incorrect. Antihypertensive drugs can interact with other medications or supplements, potentially causing adverse effects or drug interactions. It's essential for the client to inform their healthcare provider of all medications and supplements they are taking to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is incorrect. Antihypertensive drugs do not cure hypertension but help control it. Clients need to understand that they will likely need to take these medications long-term to manage their blood pressure effectively.

The correct answer is Choice C: Assign the remainder of medication administration to another Practical Nurse (PN) who is performing treatments.

Choice A reason: Denying the medication aide’s request to leave before all medications are given does not address the issue at hand and could potentially jeopardize patient care. It is important to acknowledge the medication aide’s request and find an appropriate solution that ensures patient safety and well-being.

Choice B reason: Delegating medication administration to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) who may not have the necessary training or authorization could lead to medication errors, adverse drug reactions, or other negative outcomes. It is essential to adhere to the scope of practice guidelines and facility policies when assigning tasks to UAPs.

Choice C reason: Reassigning the medication administration to another PN with the necessary qualifications and training ensures that patients receive their medications in a safe and timely manner. This action aligns with the practical nurse’s responsibility to supervise and delegate tasks appropriately, maintaining patient safety and upholding the standards of care.

Choice D reason: Documenting why medications were not given to each resident is an important aspect of maintaining accurate and comprehensive patient records. However, it does not address the immediate need to administer medications to residents, and it is not a substitute for ensuring that patients receive their prescribed treatments. Documentation should be completed after the appropriate steps have been taken to administer medications or arrange for an alternative solution.