The nurse is caring for a client who has heart failure with an EF of 40%. The client has a BP of 170/67 with an HR of 60. He currently is in normal sinus rhythm and has an amber urine output of 45ml in the last 3 hours. Which medication would the nurse expect to give first?
Isosorbide PO
Nitroglycerin Drip
Dopamine drip
Normal Saline Bolus
The Correct Answer is D
D Normal saline bolus administration is indicated for hypovolemia or inadequate intravascular volume, which can lead to decreased cardiac output and hypotension. In this scenario, the client has an amber urine output of 45ml in the last 3 hours, indicating decreased urine output and potential hypovolemia. The elevated blood pressure (170/67 mmHg) suggests possible volume overload or fluid retention, but the decreased urine output raises concerns for inadequate intravascular volume. Therefore, administering a normal saline bolus may be the first priority to optimize intravascular volume and improve cardiac output.
A Isosorbide mononitrate is a vasodilator commonly used in the treatment of heart failure and angina. It helps reduce preload and afterload, thereby decreasing the workload on the heart. However, in this scenario, the client's blood pressure is elevated (170/67 mmHg), and there is no indication of acute decompensation or pulmonary congestion. Therefore, isosorbide PO may not be the first priority medication at this time.
B Nitroglycerin is a potent vasodilator commonly used to manage acute heart failure exacerbations and acute coronary syndromes. It helps reduce preload and afterload, improving cardiac output and relieving symptoms of heart failure. In this scenario, the client's blood pressure is elevated, but the heart rate is normal, and there are no signs of acute decompensation. Therefore, initiating a nitroglycerin drip may not be the first priority unless the client develops symptoms of acute decompensation or pulmonary congestion.
C Dopamine is a vasopressor medication that can be used to increase blood pressure and cardiac output in patients with hypotension or shock. However, in this scenario, the client's blood pressure is elevated (170/67 mmHg), and there is no evidence of hypotension. Therefore, initiating a dopamine drip may not be appropriate at this time and could potentially exacerbate hypertension.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Cheyne-Stokes respirations involve a cyclical pattern of breathing characterized by gradual increase and decrease in the depth and rate of respirations, with periods of hyperventilation alternating with periods of apnea. It is commonly seen in patients with neurological disorders, heart failure, or drug overdose.
A. Apneustic respirations are characterized by prolonged inspiratory gasps followed by a brief pause and insufficient expiration. This pattern is often associated with damage to the pons in the brainstem.

C. Stridor is a high-pitched, noisy respiratory sound caused by turbulent airflow through partially obstructed airways. It is typically heard during inspiration and is often associated with upper airway obstruction, such as in cases of croup or epiglottitis.
D. Kussmaul respirations are deep, rapid, and labored breathing patterns often seen in patients with metabolic acidosis, particularly diabetic ketoacidosis. Unlike Cheyne-Stokes respirations, Kussmaul respirations do not involve periods of apnea.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. Respiratory acidosis- The pH is acidic, and the PaCO2 is elevated, indicating respiratory acidosis. The client's hypoventilation (respiratory rate of 7/min) is causing retention of carbon dioxide, leading to respiratory acidosis.
A. Metabolic alkalosis- The ABG values do not support a diagnosis of metabolic alkalosis. The pH is acidic, and the base excess is negative, indicating a mild metabolic acidosis.
B. Respiratory alkalosis- The ABG values do not support a diagnosis of respiratory alkalosis. The pH is acidic, and the PaCO2 is elevated, indicating respiratory acidosis rather than alkalosis.
D. Metabolic acidosis- While there is evidence of a mild metabolic acidosis indicated by the negative base excess, the primary disturbance in this case is respiratory acidosis, as evidenced by the low pH and elevated PaCO2.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
