The nurse is caring for a client with hypertension who is on alpha blockers. The nurse is concerned about postural hypotension. Which information should the nurse include in the teaching plan?
Change positions slowly
Check blood pressure every day for signs of rebound hypertension
Do not become dependent on canes, walkers, or handrails.
Eat plenty of salty food to prevent hypotension
The Correct Answer is A
The information that the nurse should include in the teaching plan for a client with hypertension who is on alpha blockers and at risk for postural hypotension is: Change positions slowly.
Alpha blockers are a class of medications commonly prescribed for hypertension. One potential side effect of alpha blockers is postural hypotension, which is a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing positions, such as from sitting to standing. To minimize the risk of postural hypotension, it is important for the client to change positions slowly. The nurse should advise the client to take their time when transitioning from lying down, sitting, or standing, allowing their body to adjust and stabilize their blood pressure.
The other options are not appropriate or helpful in managing postural hypotension:
Check blood pressure every day for signs of rebound hypertension: Rebound hypertension refers to a sudden increase in blood pressure that can occur when discontinuing certain antihypertensive medications. It is not directly related to postural hypotension. Regular blood pressure monitoring is important for managing hypertension, but it is not specifically related to postural hypotension or alpha blockers.
Do not become dependent on canes, walkers, or handrails: Assistive devices like canes, walkers, or handrails can provide support and stability for individuals who experience balance issues or are at risk of falls. It is not necessary to discourage their use unless there are specific contraindications or safety concerns.
Eat plenty of salty food to prevent hypotension: Increasing salt intake is generally not recommended for individuals with hypertension or those at risk of postural hypotension. A high-sodium diet can contribute to elevated blood pressure and is generally discouraged. The nurse should instead encourage a balanced diet that includes appropriate sodium intake based on the client's healthcare provider's recommendations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The inability to move the left arm and leg suggests a neurological deficit, which is a significant finding that requires immediate attention. It could indicate a potential stroke or another neurological emergency that requires prompt evaluation and intervention. The health care provider needs to be notified immediately so that appropriate diagnostic tests and interventions can be initiated.
Tremors in the fingers when extending the arms can be a sign of tremor disorders or medication side effects but may not warrant immediate intervention.
Atrial fibrillation is a cardiac arrhythmia that requires monitoring and management but may not be directly related to the acute neurological issue.
The headache reported by the patient, although significant, is subjective and may be related to the hypertensive emergency or other factors but does not require immediate intervention compared to the potential neurological deficit.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Based on the information provided, an Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) of 0.89 indicates a mild reduction in blood flow to the lower extremities, suggesting peripheral arterial disease (PAD). In this case, the nurse should educate the client about the use of compression stockings.
Compression stockings are a conservative management approach for peripheral arterial disease. They help improve blood flow and alleviate symptoms by applying pressure to the legs, promoting venous return, and reducing swelling. Educating the client about the use of compression stockings can help improve circulation and manage symptoms such as pain, cramping, and fatigue.
Let's review the other options and explain why they are not the most appropriate interventions in this scenario:
Document the information as a normal finding: An ABI of 0.89 indicates an abnormal finding suggestive of peripheral arterial disease. It should not be documented as a normal finding, as it requires further assessment and intervention.
Prepare the client for an arterial bypass: An arterial bypass is a surgical intervention that is typically reserved for more severe cases of peripheral arterial disease. With an ABI of 0.89, which indicates mild reduction in blood flow, arterial bypass is not the first-line intervention. Conservative measures and medical management are usually recommended initially.
Anticipate a prescription for clopidogrel and simvastatin: Medications like clopidogrel (antiplatelet) and simvastatin (statin) may be prescribed for peripheral arterial disease. However, the next appropriate step after obtaining an ABI of 0.89 would be to educate the client about the use of compression stockings as a conservative management option before considering medication therapy.
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.