The nurse is teaching a client with hypertension (HTN) about newly prescribed amlodipine (Norvasc). Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
"This medication makes your kidneys work harder, so you may experience increased urine production.”.
"Stop taking the medication immediately if you notice any edema in your legs.”.
"You will need to have monthly blood specimens obtained to check your potassium level.”.
"Report to your healthcare provider if you experience any constipation or abdominal pain.”.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, primarily acts on vascular smooth muscles to reduce blood pressure. It does not directly affect renal function or significantly increase urine output. This statement reflects a misunderstanding of the drug's mechanism of action.
Choice B rationale
Edema, a common side effect of amlodipine, is due to vasodilation and capillary leakage, particularly in lower extremities. However, sudden discontinuation of the medication may lead to rebound hypertension and should be avoided. Reporting side effects is crucial for alternative management.
Choice C rationale
Amlodipine does not necessitate routine potassium monitoring as it does not significantly affect potassium homeostasis. This requirement is more commonly associated with potassium-wasting diuretics or renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system modulators.
Choice D rationale
Constipation and abdominal pain, although less common, may occur due to gastrointestinal motility changes caused by smooth muscle relaxation. Prompt reporting ensures timely assessment and potential treatment modifications to enhance adherence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Fatigue can occur in thrombocytopenia due to associated bleeding or anemia, but it is not a hallmark symptom specific to low platelet counts alone. Fatigue relates more to overall systemic effects or concurrent conditions rather than isolated thrombocytopenia. Hemorrhage and petechiae, however, are more directly correlated with reduced platelets in circulation, which compromise clotting and vascular integrity.
Choice B rationale
Hemorrhage is a major concern in thrombocytopenia due to severely reduced platelet counts. Normal platelet levels range from 150,000–450,000/mm³, and values of 18,000/mm³ indicate critical impairment in clot formation, increasing the risk of spontaneous bleeding. Hemorrhagic events in vital organs pose life-threatening consequences, making monitoring and interventions essential to minimize complications associated with uncontrolled bleeding.
Choice C rationale
Petechiae are pinpoint hemorrhages visible on the skin or mucosal surfaces, indicating capillary bleeding due to insufficient platelet-mediated clotting. Normal platelet levels maintain vascular integrity by enabling clot formation, which prevents such microvascular bleeding. Platelet counts as low as 18,000/mm³ lead to abnormal hemorrhagic manifestations, making petechiae a frequent and observable sign in severe thrombocytopenia cases.
Choice D rationale
Headache can occur with thrombocytopenia if intracranial hemorrhage develops, but it is not an expected symptom in all cases. While bleeding risks elevate overall concerns, headache depends on specific organ involvement. Petechiae and systemic hemorrhage are primary symptoms associated with low platelet levels. Headaches without evidence of bleeding do not distinctly correlate with thrombocytopenia diagnosis.
Correct Answer is ["12"]
Explanation
Step 1 is (176 pounds ÷ 2.2 pounds/kg) × 10 mcg/kg/min = 800 mcg/min.
Step 2 is (800 mcg ÷ 1000 mcg/mg) × 250 mL = 0.2 mL/min.
Step 3 is 0.2 mL/min × 60 min = 12 mL/hour. Final answer: 12 mL/hour.
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