A patient with a history of angina pectoris is prescribed nitroglycerin sublingual tablets for chest pain relief. Which instruction should the nurse provide to the patient regarding nitroglycerin administration?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets are meant to be dissolved under the tongue to allow for rapid absorption into the bloodstream. Placing the tablet under the tongue helps to bypass the first-pass metabolism in the liver, leading to a quicker onset of action and chest pain relief. Chewing, swallowing, or applying the tablet to the skin will result in decreased effectiveness or delayed onset of action. Therefore, it is important for the patient to be instructed to place the nitroglycerin tablet under the tongue and allow it to dissolve for optimal therapeutic benefit.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A patient with chronic kidney disease prescribed a low-protein diet should avoid high-protein foods like grilled salmon, lentil soup, and beef stew. Chicken Caesar salad, on the other hand, typically contains a smaller amount of protein compared to the other options. This choice indicates an understanding of the need to limit protein intake while still enjoying a balanced meal. However, it is important to note that the quantity and portion sizes of high-protein ingredients in the salad should also be moderate to comply with a low-protein diet.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Beta-blockers are medications commonly used in the management of heart failure. One of the therapeutic effects of beta-blockers is to decrease the heart rate. By blocking the action of adrenaline on the heart, beta-blockers help to slow down the heart rate, reduce the workload on the heart, and improve overall heart function. In patients with heart failure, a decreased heart rate is a favorable outcome as it can help improve cardiac output and reduce symptoms of heart failure such as fatigue and shortness of breath. Monitoring the heart rate is an important assessment parameter to evaluate the effectiveness of beta-blocker therapy in patients with heart failure. Therefore, a decreased heart rate would indicate a therapeutic effect of beta-blocker therapy in this patient.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Loop diuretics, such as furosemide, are potent diuretics commonly used to manage conditions like edema, heart failure, and hypertension. Loop diuretics work by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the loop of Henle in the kidney, leading to increased diuresis. However, this mechanism of action can also lead to increased excretion of other electrolytes, such as magnesium.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Beta-blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on beta receptors in the body. One common adverse effect of beta-blockers is bradycardia, or a slowed heart rate. Since the patient is being prescribed a beta-blocker for migraine headaches, it is important for the nurse to monitor closely for signs and symptoms of bradycardia such as dizziness, fatigue, and fainting. Monitoring the heart rate regularly and reporting any significant decrease to the healthcare provider is essential to prevent complications associated with bradycardia. Compared to the other options, bradycardia is the most relevant adverse effect to monitor in a patient prescribed a beta-blocker.