A patient’s blood pressure is 130/84. The health care provider plans to suggest nonpharmacologic methods to lower blood pressure. Which should the nurse include in teaching? (Select ALL that apply.)

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the scenario presented, the correct nonpharmacologic method to lower blood pressure is stress-reduction techniques (Option A). Stress can contribute to elevated blood pressure, so teaching patients how to manage stress effectively can have a positive impact on their blood pressure levels. Exercise (Option B) is generally recommended to help lower blood pressure, but it is not the best choice among the given options in this specific scenario. Salt restriction (Option C) is also a common recommendation to lower blood pressure, but in this case, stress-reduction techniques are more directly related to the patient's current blood pressure reading. Smoking cessation (Option D) is important for overall health but may not have an immediate impact on blood pressure compared to stress reduction. Educationally, it is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers to understand the holistic approach to managing hypertension. By teaching patients effective stress-reduction techniques, healthcare providers empower them to take control of their health and potentially lower their blood pressure without the need for medication. This approach aligns with the principles of patient-centered care and empowers individuals to make positive lifestyle changes to improve their health outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In 2003 the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) published a comprehensive set of competencies defining the scope and practice of psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). An example of a competency specific to medication prescribing for PMHNPs states that the PMHNP “prescribes psychotropic and related medications based on clinical indicators of a patient’s status, including results of diagnostic and lab tests as appropriate, to treat symptoms of psychiatric disorders and improve functional health status.” Knowledge of pharmacology algorithms or of monotherapeutic symptoms is not applicable since they are not required needs. A knowledge of the doses of all “atypical” psychotropic drugs is too specific to one class of psychotropic medications. Nurses need to know information about all psychotropic medications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology, understanding the uses of herbal therapies is crucial for healthcare professionals. Feverfew is commonly used for migraine headaches due to its anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties. This herb has been studied for its effectiveness in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. Option A, muscle aches, is incorrect because feverfew is not specifically indicated for this condition. Option C, leg cramps, is also incorrect as feverfew is not commonly used for this purpose. Option D, incision pain after surgery, is incorrect because feverfew is not typically recommended for postoperative pain management. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of knowing the specific uses of herbal remedies, especially in the context of managing common health conditions. Understanding the evidence-based uses of herbs like feverfew can help nurses and other healthcare providers make informed decisions when discussing complementary therapies with patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Stimulants. The patient's symptoms align with the effects of stimulant drugs like amphetamines or cocaine. These substances typically cause restlessness, hyperactivity, talkativeness, confusion, euphoria, tachycardia, and fever due to their stimulant properties on the central nervous system. Option A) Opioids are unlikely as opioids typically present with symptoms like respiratory depression, pinpoint pupils, sedation, and constipation, which are not consistent with the patient's symptoms. Option B) Alcohol intoxication would manifest with symptoms such as slurred speech, impaired coordination, sedation, and potentially respiratory depression, which do not match the patient's presentation. Option D) Depressants like benzodiazepines or barbiturates would result in symptoms such as sedation, decreased heart rate, respiratory depression, and impaired coordination, which are contradictory to the patient's hyperactive state. Educationally, understanding the distinct effects of different drug classes is crucial for healthcare professionals to accurately assess and manage patients presenting with substance-related symptoms. Recognizing the signs of stimulant intoxication, as in this case, enables appropriate interventions and ensures patient safety.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Atrial fibrillation. Ibutilide (Corvert) is a class III antiarrhythmic medication commonly used to treat atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation is a common cardiac arrhythmia characterized by rapid and irregular atrial contractions, leading to inefficient blood pumping by the heart. Ibutilide works by prolonging the refractory period of the atria, helping to restore normal sinus rhythm in patients with atrial fibrillation. Option A) Ventricular ectopy is incorrect because ibutilide is not typically used to treat ventricular arrhythmias. Ventricular ectopy refers to premature contractions originating in the ventricles. Option C) Supraventricular tachycardia is incorrect because while ibutilide can be used for certain types of supraventricular arrhythmias, it is more commonly indicated for atrial fibrillation. Option D) Bradycardia is incorrect because ibutilide is not used to treat slow heart rates (bradycardia); it is more commonly used for fast or irregular heart rhythms. Understanding the specific indications for medications like ibutilide is crucial for nurses caring for patients with cardiovascular disorders. Recognizing the appropriate use of medications based on the patient's diagnosis is essential for safe and effective pharmacological management in clinical practice.