A client has a new prescription for a Nitroglycerin transdermal patch. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction is to apply the Nitroglycerin transdermal patch to a hairless area of skin. This ensures proper absorption of the medication. It is important to rotate the application site daily to prevent skin irritation and tolerance development. Applying the patch to the same site each day can lead to decreased efficacy and potential skin reactions. Removing the patch at night is not necessary as the patches are usually worn continuously to provide constant medication delivery. Covering the patch with a heating pad can increase the absorption of the medication and lead to an overdose, which is not recommended.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When a client is prescribed Digoxin, monitoring potassium levels is crucial as hypokalemia can increase the risk of Digoxin toxicity. Low potassium levels can potentiate the effects of Digoxin on the heart, leading to toxicity. Therefore, regular monitoring of potassium levels helps in preventing adverse effects and ensuring the safe use of Digoxin.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker commonly used to treat hypertension and angina. The correct answer is B) Edema. Nifedipine can cause peripheral edema due to its vasodilatory effects, leading to fluid accumulation in the extremities. This adverse effect is important to monitor as it can impact the client's comfort and compliance with the medication. A) Hypertension is incorrect because Nifedipine is actually used to treat hypertension by causing vasodilation and reducing blood pressure. C) Hyperglycemia is not a common adverse effect of Nifedipine. In fact, calcium channel blockers are typically considered safe for patients with diabetes. D) Bradycardia is unlikely with Nifedipine as it does not have a direct effect on heart rate. In fact, it may cause reflex tachycardia as a compensatory mechanism for the drop in blood pressure. Educationally, understanding the common adverse effects of medications is crucial for safe medication administration and patient monitoring. Nurses need to be familiar with potential side effects to provide comprehensive care, educate patients, and intervene promptly if adverse reactions occur.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the adverse effects of medications is crucial for safe and effective patient care. In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Peripheral edema. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker commonly prescribed for hypertension and angina. One of its common side effects is peripheral edema, which is the accumulation of fluid in the extremities. Tachycardia (option A) is unlikely with amlodipine as it actually helps lower heart rate by dilating blood vessels, reducing the workload on the heart. Hyperglycemia (option C) is not a common adverse effect of amlodipine. Hypertension (option D) is the condition being treated by amlodipine, so it wouldn't be an adverse effect to monitor. Educationally, this question emphasizes the importance of recognizing common side effects of medications to provide appropriate monitoring and care for patients. Understanding the pharmacological actions and side effect profiles of medications is essential for nursing practice to ensure patient safety and well-being.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Tachycardia. When teaching a client about a new prescription for Hydralazine, a vasodilator used to treat hypertension, it is crucial to highlight potential adverse effects. Hydralazine can cause tachycardia as a common side effect due to its direct vasodilatory effect on arteries, leading to reflex tachycardia as the body compensates for the sudden drop in blood pressure. The incorrect options are B) Hyperglycemia, C) Hyponatremia, and D) Constipation. Hydralazine does not typically impact blood glucose levels, sodium levels, or cause constipation. Therefore, educating the client on monitoring for these specific adverse effects would not be relevant in the context of taking Hydralazine. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind monitoring specific adverse effects of medications enhances patient safety and promotes effective medication management. Nurses play a vital role in educating clients on medication side effects to empower them to recognize and report any concerning symptoms promptly, ensuring optimal therapeutic outcomes.