a nurse reviewing a clients medical record notes a new prescription for verifying the trough level of the clients medication which of the following a

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ATI Pharmacology

1. A nurse reviewing a client's medical record notes a new prescription for verifying the trough level of the client's medication. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Obtain a blood specimen immediately prior to administering the next dose of medication.
B. Verify that the client has been taking the medication for 24 hours before obtaining a blood specimen.
C. Ask the client to provide a urine specimen after the next dose of medication.
D. Administer the medication and obtain a blood specimen 30 minutes later.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To verify the trough levels of a medication accurately, the nurse should obtain a blood specimen immediately before administering the next dose of the medication. The trough level represents the lowest concentration of the medication in the bloodstream, typically right before the next dose is due. This timing ensures an accurate assessment of the drug's concentration in the body at its lowest point, aiding in determining the drug's effectiveness and potential toxicity levels. Choice B is incorrect because waiting for 24 hours would not provide the trough level. Choice C is incorrect as urine specimens are not used to measure trough levels. Choice D is incorrect as obtaining a blood specimen 30 minutes after administering the medication would not reflect the trough level.

2. Why should the nitrate patch be off for 8 hours per day?

A. “There is no reason to take the patch off each day.”
B. “The patch can be addictive; leaving it off reduces the addiction.”
C. “You should only leave the patch off for 15 minutes.”
D. “Leaving the patch off for 8 hours per day helps to delay the development of tolerance.”

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Removing the nitrate patch for 8 hours each day is essential to prevent the body from developing tolerance to the medication. By allowing the body to have a drug-free period, the effectiveness of the medication is maintained over time. This practice helps in ensuring that the nitrate patch continues to provide its intended therapeutic effects without diminishing its efficacy. Therefore, it is important for the client to adhere to the prescribed schedule of removing the patch for 8 hours daily to optimize the treatment outcomes.

3. A client has been prescribed an ACE Inhibitor for hypertension. Which of the following instructions should be included by the healthcare provider?

A. Avoid salt substitutes.
B. Take this medication at bedtime.
C. Avoid foods high in potassium.
D. Limit your fluid intake.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to 'Avoid salt substitutes.' ACE Inhibitors can increase potassium levels, so clients should avoid salt substitutes that contain potassium to prevent hyperkalemia, which is a potential side effect of ACE Inhibitors. Choice B 'Take this medication at bedtime' is incorrect as ACE Inhibitors are usually taken in the morning to avoid nocturnal diuresis. Choice C 'Avoid foods high in potassium' is incorrect because although ACE Inhibitors can increase potassium levels, clients are generally encouraged to consume potassium-rich foods in moderation unless contraindicated. Choice D 'Limit your fluid intake' is also incorrect as ACE Inhibitors do not typically require fluid restrictions unless specified by a healthcare provider for other reasons.

4. Which of the following is not a side effect of the vasodilator Nifedipine?

A. Nausea
B. Flushed appearance
C. Vertigo
D. Sexual dysfunction

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Sexual dysfunction is not a common side effect of vasodilators such as Nifedipine. Nausea, flushed appearance, and vertigo are more commonly reported side effects associated with this medication. It's essential for healthcare providers to be aware of the potential side effects to monitor and manage them effectively in patients prescribed with Nifedipine.

5. A client with a new prescription for an antihypertensive medication is being provided discharge instructions by a nurse. Which of the following statements should the nurse give?

A. Be sure to limit your potassium intake while taking the medication.
B. You should check your blood pressure every 8 hours while taking this medication.
C. Your medication dosage will be increased if you develop tachycardia.
D. Change positions slowly when you move from sitting to standing.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct statement for the nurse to provide is to instruct the client to change positions slowly when moving from sitting to standing. This is crucial because antihypertensive medications can cause orthostatic hypotension, leading to dizziness or lightheadedness when changing positions quickly. Checking blood pressure every 8 hours is unnecessary and could lead to over-monitoring. There is no direct relationship between the medication and potassium intake. Increasing the medication dosage due to tachycardia is not a typical response and may not be accurate.