Which of the following would the nurse recognize as beta blockers? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY.

Choice A reason: This statement is false. INR level is not a priority assessment for a patient receiving digoxin, as digoxin is not an anticoagulant. INR level is used to monitor the effects of warfarin, which is a different medication.

Choice B reason:The apical heart rate is the priority assessment for patients receiving digoxin. Digoxin slows conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node and strengthens cardiac contractions. It can cause bradycardia, particularly if the heart rate drops below 60 beats per minute. Monitoring the apical heart rate ensures that digoxin is safe to administer. If bradycardia is detected, the dose should be withheld, and the prescribing provider should be notified.

Choice C reason: This statement is false. Blood pressure is not a priority assessment for a patient receiving digoxin, as digoxin does not have a significant effect on blood pressure. Blood pressure is more relevant for other medications used to treat heart failure, such as diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or beta-blockers.

Choice D reason: While monitoring temperature is part of a comprehensive assessment, it is not directly relevant to digoxin administration. Fever might indicate infection, which could exacerbate heart failure, but it is not a priority assessment for digoxin therapy.

Choice A reason: This statement is false. Atorvastatin is not a medication that the nurse should hold, as it is used to lower cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular events. It does not have a significant effect on blood pressure, heart rate, or blood glucose.

Choice B reason: This statement is true. Captopril is a medication that the nurse should hold, as it is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that lowers blood pressure and prevents kidney damage. However, it can also cause hyperkalemia, which is a condition where the potassium level is too high. The client has a high potassium level, which can cause cardiac arrhythmias or muscle weakness. The nurse should hold the captopril and notify the prescriber.

Choice C reason: This statement is false. Atenolol is not a medication that the nurse should hold, as it is a beta-blocker that lowers blood pressure and heart rate. It can also prevent angina and reduce the risk of heart attack. The client has a normal heart rate and a slightly elevated blood pressure, which can be expected after surgery. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs and administer the atenolol as ordered.

Choice D reason: This statement is false. Glipizide is not a medication that the nurse should hold, as it is an oral antidiabetic drug that lowers blood glucose by stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas. The client has a normal blood glucose level, which can be maintained by taking the glipizide as ordered. The nurse should also encourage the client to follow a balanced diet and exercise regimen.