A patient with a history of heart failure is prescribed carvedilol. Which parameter should the nurse monitor closely during carvedilol therapy?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Carvedilol is a beta-blocker primarily used to manage heart failure and hypertension. Monitoring blood pressure closely during carvedilol therapy is crucial because it helps assess the drug's effectiveness in managing heart failure and controlling hypertension. Carvedilol works by blocking certain receptors in the heart and blood vessels, which can lower blood pressure. Monitoring blood pressure fluctuations allows healthcare providers to adjust the dosage accordingly to achieve optimal results and prevent potential complications in patients with heart failure. While monitoring blood glucose levels, serum potassium levels, and liver function tests are essential in managing other conditions or medications, the priority in a patient being prescribed carvedilol for heart failure is to monitor blood pressure levels.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Tiotropium (Spiriva) is an anticholinergic bronchodilator used for the management of COPD. A common side effect of anticholinergic medications is dry mouth. Rinsing the mouth with water after using the inhaler can help reduce the risk of developing oral thrush or other mouth infections due to dryness. This instruction helps promote good oral hygiene and decreases the potential side effects associated with tiotropium inhaler use. This teaching is important for patients to follow to ensure their overall health and well-being while using the medication.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nurse should monitor serum potassium levels closely during ACE inhibitor therapy because ACE inhibitors can lead to an increase in serum potassium levels, known as hyperkalemia. ACE inhibitors block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which in turn decreases aldosterone secretion. Aldosterone normally acts in the kidneys to reabsorb sodium and water and excrete potassium. Therefore, when aldosterone secretion is decreased due to ACE inhibitor therapy, there can be an increase in potassium retention, potentially leading to hyperkalemia. Monitoring serum potassium levels is essential to prevent complications associated with hyperkalemia, such as cardiac arrhythmias.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Beta-adrenergic agonists stimulate beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart, leading to an increase in heart rate (tachycardia). This is a common adverse effect associated with the use of beta-adrenergic agonists in the management of conditions such as asthma. Monitoring for tachycardia is important because it can potentially lead to other complications such as palpitations, arrhythmias, and exacerbation of underlying cardiovascular conditions. It is essential for the nurse to closely monitor the patient for any signs or symptoms of tachycardia and report any abnormalities to the healthcare provider promptly to ensure appropriate management and prevent further complications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Antipsychotic medications can cause metabolic side effects, including hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Patients with bipolar disorder who are prescribed antipsychotic medications are at risk for developing new-onset diabetes or exacerbating preexisting diabetes. Monitoring blood glucose levels is essential to detect hyperglycemia early and prevent complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis. While hypertension, hypotension, and hypernatremia are possible side effects of certain medications, they are not typically associated with antipsychotic medications commonly used in the management of bipolar disorder. Hyperglycemia is a serious concern in this population due to the risk of developing diabetes or worsening of existing diabetes.