A pregnant woman is experiencing hypertension. The nurse knows that which drug is commonly used for a pregnant patient who is experiencing hypertension?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Methyldopa (Aldomet) is commonly used for managing hypertension in pregnant women. It is considered safe during pregnancy and is often the first-line treatment for hypertension in pregnancy. Methyldopa acts by stimulating alpha-adrenergic receptors in the central nervous system, leading to a decrease in peripheral vascular resistance, which helps to lower blood pressure. Other antihypertensive drugs, such as Enalapril and Hydrochlorothiazide, are not recommended during pregnancy as they can cause harm to the fetus. Mannitol is a diuretic used for managing cerebral edema and intraocular pressure but is not typically used for hypertension in pregnancy. Therefore, Methyldopa is the preferred choice for managing hypertension in pregnant patients.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that works by blocking the reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidneys while retaining potassium. This mechanism can lead to an increased risk of hyperkalemia, a condition characterized by high levels of potassium in the blood. Therefore, patients taking spironolactone should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of hyperkalemia, such as muscle weakness, fatigue, and abnormal heart rhythms. In contrast, diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide (choice A), furosemide (choice B), and acetazolamide (choice C) are not typically associated with the risk of hyperkalemia.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Morphine depresses respiration, and 8 breaths per minute signals overdose, needing immediate action (e.g., naloxone) to reverse hypoventilation. BP of 120/80 and pulse of 90 are normal. Pain at 3/10 shows relief. Respiratory depression is morphine's gravest risk, critical in acute pain where safety trumps comfort, making A the finding requiring swift response.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Lithium, used for bipolar disorder, stabilizes mood via inositol depletion and other mechanisms. It can cause hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism, by inhibiting thyroid hormone release. High sodium intake increases lithium excretion, lowering plasma levels, not raising them. Common adverse effects include acne (sebaceous gland stimulation), polydipsia, and polyuria (due to nephrogenic diabetes insipidus from ADH antagonism), affecting many patients and requiring monitoring. Teratogenicity concerns focus on Ebstein's anomaly (cardiac defect), not spina bifida, though risks are low with modern management. Sedation isn't rapid; therapeutic effects take days to weeks. The constellation of acne, polydipsia, and polyuria reflects lithium's broad physiological impact, making it the most accurate description of its side effect profile.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Ondansetron, which is commonly used to prevent nausea and vomiting, can be administered via three routes: Orally (PO), Intravenously (IV), and Rectally (Rectal). These routes allow for flexible administration based on the patient's condition and needs. Intramuscular (IM) administration is not a recognized route for ondansetron administration.