The nurse is obtaining a medication history on a patient presenting with chest pain. What drug classification would necessitate the nurse informing the provider before beginning the prescribed nitroglycerin?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Phosphodiesterase inhibitors (Erectile Dysfunction medications) are contraindicated with nitroglycerin due to the potential for severe hypotension and cardiovascular collapse when taken together. It is essential for the nurse to inform the provider before administering nitroglycerin if the patient is taking phosphodiesterase inhibitors to prevent any harmful interactions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Beta blockers are commonly used in the treatment of migraine headaches. These medications work by blocking the action of certain chemicals that cause blood vessels to dilate. By helping to prevent blood vessel dilation and constriction, beta blockers can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Additionally, beta blockers are thought to interfere with the transmission of pain signals in the brain.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Digoxin should be withheld if the apical pulse is below 60 beats/minute in adults, as it can exacerbate bradycardia and lead to serious cardiac complications. The nurse should hold the dose and notify the healthcare provider for further instructions. Administering the dose (B) or contacting the charge nurse (C) without holding the dose is inappropriate.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Albuterol is typically administered through inhalation as an aerosol or nebulized solution to provide quick relief of bronchospasm in conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It can also be administered intravenously in emergency situations for severe bronchospasm or anaphylaxis. Albuterol is not formulated as an extended-release oral medication due to the need for rapid onset of action in managing acute bronchospasm.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When a client receives total parenteral nutrition (TPN), monitoring blood glucose levels is critical due to the high glucose content in TPN solutions, which can lead to hyperglycemia. This condition arises because TPN delivers concentrated nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system, and the body may struggle to regulate sugar levels effectively without proper insulin response. Potassium levels, while important in overall electrolyte balance, are less immediately impacted by TPN compared to glucose, as potassium imbalances typically develop over time rather than acutely from TPN initiation. Mental status assessments are valuable for neurological conditions but lack direct relevance to TPN's metabolic effects. Similarly, blood pressure monitoring is essential for cardiovascular health but isn't the primary concern with TPN, as it doesn't directly influence hypertension or hypotension in the same way glucose dysregulation does. The focus on glucose stems from its rapid impact on the client's metabolic state, making it the priority assessment to prevent complications like hyperglycemia, which can escalate to severe outcomes if unaddressed. Regular monitoring ensures timely intervention, aligning with TPN's nutritional goals.