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 D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Serum electrolytes provide valuable information about fluid and electrolyte balance but are not specific markers for heart failure. Electrolyte abnormalities, such as hyponatremia, may occur but are secondary findings. Direct markers like BNP levels are more diagnostic for heart failure.
Choice B rationale
A complete blood count is used to assess infection, anemia, or inflammation but does not directly diagnose heart failure. It lacks specificity for cardiac function evaluation. Targeted testing ensures effective diagnosis and management.
Choice C rationale
Blood urea nitrogen measures renal function and is not a primary marker for heart failure. Elevated BUN may result from renal hypoperfusion secondary to heart failure but is not a definitive diagnostic indicator. Specific cardiac markers are required.
Choice D rationale
Brain natriuretic peptide is a hormone released in response to ventricular stretch from volume overload, characteristic of heart failure. Elevated BNP levels strongly correlate with heart failure severity and guide diagnosis. Normal BNP levels are typically <100 pg/mL. This test is highly specific for heart failure. .
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Assessing energy levels provides indirect information about cardiac output but lacks specificity regarding fluid overload or pulmonary congestion, which are key indicators of heart failure exacerbation. It is a relevant question but not the best for evaluating treatment outcomes.
Choice B rationale
Asking about pillow use evaluates orthopnea, a common symptom of heart failure due to fluid buildup in the lungs when lying flat. It provides a direct assessment of fluid status and the effectiveness of heart failure management, making it the best question.
Choice C rationale
Exercising regularly is an important lifestyle aspect for heart failure patients but does not directly assess the status of symptoms such as fluid overload or cardiac function. Thus, it is not the most critical outcome measure.
Choice D rationale
Chest pain can indicate ischemia or worsening cardiac function but is not specific to fluid status or pulmonary congestion in heart failure. Therefore, it is a relevant but less optimal question for evaluating treatment goals.
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