An older adult patient will be taking a vasodilator for hypertension. Which adverse effect is of most concern for the older adult patient taking this class of drug?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The most concerning adverse effect for an older adult patient taking a vasodilator for hypertension is hypotension, which refers to abnormally low blood pressure levels. Older adults are more susceptible to experiencing drops in blood pressure due to age-related changes in their cardiovascular system. Vasodilators work by dilating blood vessels, which can further lower blood pressure. Excessive hypotension can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness, and falls, which can be particularly dangerous for older adults who are at a higher risk of injury. Close monitoring of blood pressure and gradual dosage titration are essential in older adult patients to minimize the risk of hypotension.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Epinephrine is a potent agonist of adrenergic receptors, which are part of the sympathetic nervous system. It rapidly affects alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors, leading to increased heart rate, vasoconstriction, and bronchodilation. Muscarinic and cholinergic receptors are part of the parasympathetic nervous system and are not directly activated by epinephrine. Nicotinic receptors are found in the neuromuscular junction and autonomic ganglia but are not the primary target of epinephrine. The rapid action of epinephrine makes it a critical drug in emergencies such as anaphylaxis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Decreased heart rate, contractility, and excitability, as well as a membrane-stabilizing effect, lead to a decrease in arrhythmias, a decreased cardiac workload, and decreased oxygen consumption. The juxtaglomerular cells are not stimulated to release renin, which further decreases the blood pressure. These effects are useful in treating hypertension and chronic angina and can help to prevent reinfarction after a myocardial infarction by decreasing cardiac workload and oxygen consumption. Corgard will not prevent blood pressure problems, arrhythmias, or glaucoma in the future. Corgard is not used to treat BPH.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor commonly used to treat conditions such as acid reflux and ulcers. It is typically recommended to be taken in the morning on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before the first meal of the day. This is because omeprazole works best when the stomach is empty to ensure optimal absorption and effectiveness of the medication. Taking omeprazole with food or at other times of the day may reduce its potency and could lead to suboptimal results in managing the patient's condition.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When administering Morphine, the typical starting dose for an adult is 2.5 mg to 10 mg every 3 to 4 hours as needed for pain. The dose should be adjusted according to the severity of the pain, the patient's response, and any side effects. Therefore, the correct choice is A, 2-5 mg every 3-4 hours, as it falls within the recommended starting dose range for Morphine administration.