LPN LPN
LPN Pharmacology
1. Before administering digoxin (Lanoxin) to a client diagnosed with heart failure, the nurse should perform which assessment?
- A. Check the blood pressure.
- B. Obtain an electrocardiogram (ECG).
- C. Assess the apical pulse.
- D. Review the latest electrolyte levels.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Assessing the apical pulse is crucial before administering digoxin because the medication can lead to bradycardia. Monitoring the apical pulse helps determine the heart rate, and digoxin is typically withheld if the pulse is below 60 beats per minute. This assessment is essential to prevent potential adverse effects associated with digoxin administration. Checking the blood pressure (Choice A) is important but not specific to digoxin administration. Obtaining an electrocardiogram (ECG) (Choice B) may provide valuable information but is not the primary assessment needed before administering digoxin. Reviewing the latest electrolyte levels (Choice D) is important for assessing the overall condition but is not the immediate assessment required before administering digoxin.
2. The client will wear a Holter monitor for continuous cardiac monitoring over the next 24 hours. What action should the nurse take to assist the client?
- A. Shave the front of the client's chest
- B. Give the client a device holder to wear around the waist
- C. Teach the client to rest as much as possible during the next 24 hours
- D. Tell the client to cover the monitor in plastic wrap before taking a bath
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Providing the client with a device holder to wear around the waist allows them to comfortably carry the Holter monitor while engaging in normal activities throughout the 24-hour monitoring period. This approach supports the client's mobility and ensures the monitor is securely in place for accurate readings. Shaving the front of the client's chest is unnecessary and not a standard practice for Holter monitor placement. Instructing the client to rest as much as possible does not promote normal daily activities which are important for accurate monitoring. Covering the monitor in plastic wrap before bathing is not recommended as it may affect the functionality of the device.
3. The nurse is caring for a client with a diagnosis of myocardial infarction (MI) and is assisting the client in completing the diet menu. Which beverage does the nurse instruct the client to select from the menu?
- A. Tea
- B. Cola
- C. Coffee
- D. Lemonade
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Lemonade is the correct choice as it is caffeine-free, unlike tea, cola, and coffee, which contain caffeine that can potentially affect the client's heart rhythm. Caffeine can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which may not be advisable for a client with a recent MI. Tea, cola, and coffee should be avoided due to their caffeine content, which can have stimulant effects on the heart and may not be beneficial for a client recovering from a myocardial infarction.
4. A client's serum calcium level is 7.9 mg/dL. The nurse is immediately concerned, knowing that this level could lead to which complication?
- A. Stroke
- B. Cardiac arrest
- C. High blood pressure
- D. Urinary stone formation
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A serum calcium level below normal (hypocalcemia) can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and potentially cardiac arrest. Calcium plays a crucial role in cardiac muscle contractility, and low levels can disrupt normal heart function, potentially leading to fatal arrhythmias and cardiac arrest. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as hypocalcemia is not directly associated with stroke, high blood pressure, or urinary stone formation. The immediate concern with low serum calcium levels is the risk of cardiac complications.
5. The client with Raynaud's phenomenon is being taught by the nurse about preventing episodes. Which instruction should the nurse reinforce?
- A. Wear gloves in cold weather.
- B. Avoid caffeine and chocolate.
- C. Increase intake of vitamin C.
- D. Use a heating pad for warmth.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Wear gloves in cold weather.' Wearing gloves in cold weather is essential for preventing vasoconstriction and subsequent episodes of Raynaud's phenomenon. Cold temperatures can trigger vasospasms in individuals with Raynaud's, and wearing gloves helps maintain warmth and prevent the constriction of blood vessels in the extremities, reducing the likelihood of an episode. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while avoiding caffeine and chocolate, increasing vitamin C intake, and using a heating pad for warmth can be beneficial for overall health, they are not specifically targeted at preventing Raynaud's phenomenon episodes triggered by cold weather.
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