Cardiovascular Pharmacology NCLEX RN
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Question 1 of 5.
The nurse is answering phones in the general practice clinic and receives a call from a client who is experiencing leg pain after starting atorvastatin. Which of the following should the nurse advise the client to do?
A. Continue taking the medication as this is an expected side effect.
B. Discontinue the medication and schedule an appointment for the next week.
C. Stretch for 20 minutes or take a warm shower.
D. Discontinue the medication and go to the emergency room as soon as possible.
Explanation: Leg pain with atorvastatin may indicate myopathy or rhabdomyolysis, a serious side effect requiring immediate discontinuation and emergency evaluation.
Question 2 of 5.
The nurse is caring for a client newly diagnosed with an abdominal aortic aneurysm. The nurse should anticipate a prescription for which of the following medications?
A. naproxen
B. digoxin
C. prednisone
D. atenolol
Explanation: Atenolol, a beta-blocker, is often prescribed to manage blood pressure and reduce stress on the aortic wall in clients with an abdominal aortic aneurysm to prevent rupture. Naproxen (an NSAID), digoxin (a cardiac glycoside), and prednisone (a corticosteroid) are not typically used for this condition.
Question 3 of 5.
The nurse is caring for a client with the following clinical data. Based on the vital signs, which medications would the nurse clarify with the primary healthcare provider (PHCP) prior to administration? See the exhibit. Select all that apply.
A. Atenolol 50 mg PO Daily
B. Spironolactone 50 mg PO Daily
C. Albuterol 2.5 mg via nebulizer Daily
D. Fentanyl 50 mcg IV Push q 6 hours PRN Pain
E. Modafinil 100 mg PO Daily
Explanation: Without specific vital signs provided, atenolol (a beta-blocker) may need clarification if the client has low heart rate (bradycardia) or low blood pressure, as it can exacerbate these conditions. Spironolactone, albuterol, fentanyl, and modafinil are less likely to require clarification based solely on vital signs unless specific contraindications (e.g., severe hypotension or respiratory distress) are present.
Question 4 of 5.
The nurse has taught a client who has been prescribed clonidine via a transdermal patch. Which of the following statements by the client would indicate a need for further teaching?
A. I can wear this patch while I shower.
B. I should keep this patch on for five days.
C. This medication may make me drowsy.
D. If I ever have to have a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), I will need to remove the patch before the test.
Explanation: Clonidine transdermal patches are typically changed every 7 days, not 5 days, so the statement about keeping the patch on for five days indicates a need for further teaching. The other statements are correct: clonidine patches are water-resistant, can cause drowsiness, and must be removed before an MRI due to potential metal content.
Question 5 of 5.
The nurse has taught a client who has been prescribed nitroglycerin transdermal. Which of the following statements by the client would indicate a correct understanding of the teaching?
A. It is okay for me to apply this patch to the area that has been shaven.
B. This patch should be removed for 4 to 6 hours to avoid me developing a tolerance.
C. It is okay for me to wear this patch while I shower.
D. I should apply this patch below my knee to lessen my chance of getting a headache.
Explanation: Applying a nitroglycerin transdermal patch to a shaved area ensures good adhesion and absorption, indicating correct understanding. Nitroglycerin patches are typically removed for 10-12 hours to prevent tolerance, not 4-6 hours. While water-resistant, applying below the knee is not standard and does not reduce headache risk.