The following drugs are contraindicated in asthma:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Propranolol, a nonselective beta-blocker, can exacerbate asthma symptoms by causing bronchoconstriction.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In a patient with a history of pancreatitis and cirrhosis, medications that may exacerbate pancreatic or hepatic issues should be avoided. Among the choices provided, diltiazem is the most suitable antihypertensive medication for this patient. Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker that does not rely on hepatic metabolism for its action, making it a safe choice for patients with liver disease. In addition, it does not have a significant effect on pancreatic function, making it a preferred option in a patient with pancreatitis. Therefore, diltiazem is the most appropriate choice for this patient with a history of pancreatitis and cirrhosis who requires treatment for hypertension.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct action is to check the radial pulse for 1 full minute. When administering digoxin, it is important to assess the apical pulse before giving the medication. A heart rate of 53 beats/min is below the normal range, especially for a patient taking digoxin, which can slow heart rate further. The nurse should check the radial pulse for a full minute to verify the heart rate accurately and assess for any abnormalities. This step is crucial to ensure patient safety and prevent potential complications associated with bradycardia. In this situation, it is necessary to withhold the dose and notify the prescriber to determine the appropriate course of action based on the assessment findings.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Propranolol, a nonselective beta-blocker, can exacerbate asthma symptoms by causing bronchoconstriction.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Calcium absorption in the small intestine relies heavily on vitamin D, which enhances the process by increasing the expression of calcium-binding proteins and improving gut uptake efficiency. Without adequate vitamin D, calcium absorption drops significantly, leading to potential bone health issues like osteoporosis or osteomalacia. Intrinsic factor, produced in the stomach, is critical for vitamin B12 absorption, not calcium, as it binds B12 for uptake in the ileum. Coenzymes, while involved in metabolic reactions, don't directly facilitate calcium absorption; their role is broader and unrelated to this specific process. Phosphorus, an abundant mineral, works with calcium in bone formation but doesn't enhance its absorption-in fact, excessive phosphorus can compete with calcium. Vitamin D's active form, calcitriol, regulates calcium levels by promoting its transport across intestinal cells, making it indispensable for maintaining skeletal integrity. This mechanism underscores why vitamin D deficiency impairs calcium utilization, distinguishing it from the other options, which lack a direct link to absorption efficiency.