Nursing Elites

1. A client on a beta blocker has a heart rate of 52 bpm. What is the nurse’s priority action?

• A. Hold the beta blocker and notify the healthcare provider.
• B. Administer the beta blocker as ordered.
• C. Increase the dose of the beta blocker.
• D. Continue to monitor the client and reassess in 30 minutes.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to hold the beta blocker and notify the healthcare provider. A heart rate of 52 bpm is low, and beta blockers can further decrease the heart rate, potentially causing harm. Therefore, withholding the medication and promptly informing the healthcare provider is crucial for further assessment and possible adjustment of the treatment plan. Administering the beta blocker as ordered (Choice B) can exacerbate the bradycardia. Increasing the dose of the beta blocker (Choice C) would further suppress the heart rate. Continuing to monitor the client and reassessing in 30 minutes (Choice D) might delay necessary interventions and increase the risk of complications in a client with a heart rate of 52 bpm.

2. When administering dobutamine to a client, what is the most important parameter to assess?

• A. Blood pressure
• B. Heart rate
• C. Oxygen saturation
• D. Respiratory rate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When giving dobutamine, the most critical parameter to assess is blood pressure. Dobutamine is known to cause significant changes in blood pressure, making it essential to closely monitor this parameter to prevent adverse effects. While heart rate is also important to monitor, blood pressure takes precedence due to the potential for hemodynamic instability caused by dobutamine. Oxygen saturation and respiratory rate, although vital signs to monitor, are not typically affected directly by dobutamine administration.

3. Which type of medication helps to lower cholesterol levels in the blood?

• A. Statins
• B. Beta-blockers
• C. ACE inhibitors
• D. Diuretics

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Statins are a type of medication specifically designed to lower cholesterol levels in the blood by inhibiting an enzyme involved in cholesterol production. Beta-blockers are mainly used to treat conditions like high blood pressure and heart problems by reducing the heart rate and workload. ACE inhibitors are used to manage conditions like high blood pressure and heart failure by relaxing blood vessels. Diuretics are medications that help the body get rid of excess salt and water by increasing urine production. Therefore, in the context of lowering cholesterol levels, statins are the most appropriate choice.

4. Which condition is characterized by the right ventricle of the heart failing due to increased pressure in the lungs, often caused by chronic lung disease?

• A. Cor pulmonale
• B. Pulmonary embolism
• C. Aortic stenosis
• D. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is Cor pulmonale, a condition where the right ventricle of the heart fails due to increased pressure in the lungs, commonly caused by chronic lung diseases like COPD. Pulmonary embolism (choice B) is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, usually caused by a blood clot. Aortic stenosis (choice C) is a narrowing of the aortic valve opening that restricts blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (choice D) is a genetic condition where the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick, making it harder for the heart to pump blood.

5. The client asks about side effects of taking digoxin. How does the nurse respond?

• A. Anorexia can be a side effect of digoxin.
• B. Tachycardia can be a side effect of digoxin.
• C. Constipation can be a side effect of digoxin.
• D. Urinary retention can be a side effect of digoxin.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Anorexia can be a side effect of digoxin.' Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are commonly known side effects of digoxin. Choice B, 'Tachycardia can be a side effect of digoxin,' is incorrect as digoxin is used to treat tachycardia, not cause it. Choice C, 'Constipation can be a side effect of digoxin,' is incorrect as constipation is not a typical side effect of digoxin. Choice D, 'Urinary retention can be a side effect of digoxin,' is also incorrect as urinary retention is not a common side effect associated with digoxin use.

Similar Questions