Which physiological response will the nurse expect to assess in patients taking hydralazine (Apresoline), which is a vasodilator medication?

Choice A reason: This is the correct statement. Non-selective beta-adrenergic blockers can interfere with the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), such as tachycardia, tremors, and sweating. They can also impair the glucose metabolism and insulin secretion in the body. Therefore, patients with diabetes who take non-selective beta-adrenergic blockers need to monitor their blood glucose levels closely and adjust their insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents accordingly.

Choice B reason: This is not a correct statement. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, do not interact with non-selective beta-adrenergic blockers. However, they can reduce the effectiveness of other antihypertensive medications, such as diuretics or ACE inhibitors, by causing fluid retention and decreasing renal blood flow.

Choice C reason: This is not a correct statement. Non-selective beta-adrenergic blockers have a rapid onset of action and can lower the blood pressure within hours of administration. Therefore, patients do not need to wait for a few weeks to see if their dosage is effective. However, they may need periodic follow-up visits to monitor their blood pressure, heart rate, and other vital signs.

Choice D reason: This is not a correct statement. Dizziness is a common side effect of non-selective beta-adrenergic blockers, especially when the patient changes position or stands up quickly. This is due to the orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing up) caused by the vasodilation effect of the medication. However, this does not mean that the patient should stop taking the medication, as this can cause rebound hypertension and other complications. Instead, the patient should rise slowly from a sitting or lying position, drink plenty of fluids, and report any severe or persistent dizziness to their health care provider.

Choice A reason: This is not the cause of airway obstruction in asthma. Collapse of the cartilaginous rings in the bronchi is a feature of tracheobronchomalacia, a condition in which the airways are weak and floppy.

Choice B reason: This is not the cause of airway obstruction in asthma. Type II alveolar cell injury and decreased surfactant are associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a condition in which the alveoli are damaged and filled with fluid.

Choice C reason: This is not the cause of airway obstruction in asthma. Alveolar changes and pulmonary congestion are seen in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a condition in which the alveoli are enlarged and lose their elasticity.

Choice D reason: This is the correct cause of airway obstruction in asthma. Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways, characterized by mucus secretion, bronchoconstriction, and airway edema. These factors reduce the diameter of the airways and increase the resistance to airflow.