The nurse is monitoring a client on dobutamine. What adverse effect should the nurse watch for?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tachycardia. Dobutamine is a beta-adrenergic agonist that stimulates the heart, increasing heart rate and contractility. Therefore, tachycardia is an expected adverse effect. Bradycardia (B) would be unlikely due to dobutamine's cardiac stimulant effects. Hypertension (C) could occur but is less common than tachycardia. Respiratory distress (D) is not a common adverse effect of dobutamine.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct response is to administer acetaminophen as prescribed for the headache. This is because headaches are a common side effect of nitroglycerin due to vasodilation. Acetaminophen can help relieve the headache without interfering with the therapeutic effects of nitroglycerin. Holding the next dose (B) is not appropriate as it can lead to inadequate treatment of the client's condition. Discontinuing nitroglycerin (C) abruptly can be dangerous as it may cause rebound hypertension. Notifying the healthcare provider (D) is not necessary unless the headache persists or worsens.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The primary effect of a calcium channel blocker on the heart is to decrease blood pressure. Calcium channel blockers block the entry of calcium into the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels and the heart. This causes vasodilation and reduces the force of contraction in the heart, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. Choices A and B are incorrect as calcium channel blockers typically do not directly affect heart rate. Choice C is incorrect because calcium channel blockers actually tend to lower blood pressure rather than increase it.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer A: The nurse should notify the healthcare provider immediately because a cough can be a sign of a serious side effect of amiodarone called pulmonary toxicity. Prompt action is necessary to prevent further complications. The healthcare provider needs to assess the client, possibly order diagnostic tests, and determine the appropriate course of action. Summary of Incorrect Choices: B: Reassuring the client without further assessment could lead to delayed recognition of a serious issue. C: Continuing amiodarone without addressing the cough may worsen the condition. D: Discontinuing amiodarone without consulting the healthcare provider may not be appropriate and could lead to adverse effects or worsening of the client's condition.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Notify the healthcare provider immediately. Visual disturbances can be a sign of serious side effects of amiodarone, such as optic neuropathy. Promptly notifying the healthcare provider allows for timely evaluation and appropriate management. Choice B is incorrect because visual disturbances with amiodarone are not common and should not be dismissed as such. Choice C is incorrect as self-monitoring may delay necessary medical intervention. Choice D is also incorrect as reducing physical activity does not address the underlying cause of visual disturbances and may not be necessary.