This drug is a Class III antiarrhythmic drug:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Sotalol. Sotalol is classified as a Class III antiarrhythmic drug because it primarily affects the potassium channels in cardiac cells, leading to prolongation of the action potential duration and refractory period. This class of drugs is known for their ability to treat various types of arrhythmias by stabilizing the heart's rhythm. Now, let's explore why the other options are incorrect: A) Flecainide is a Class IC antiarrhythmic drug that works by blocking sodium channels. C) Lidocaine is a Class IB antiarrhythmic drug that also acts by blocking sodium channels. D) Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker and is classified as a Class IV antiarrhythmic drug, not Class III. In an educational context, understanding the classification of antiarrhythmic drugs is crucial for nursing pharmacology practice. Knowing the specific mechanisms of action for each class helps nurses make informed decisions when administering these medications to patients with cardiac arrhythmias. This knowledge is essential for ensuring safe and effective patient care, as the wrong antiarrhythmic drug could potentially worsen a patient's condition.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is C) Atenolol. Atenolol is a selective blocker of beta-1 adrenoreceptors. It specifically targets beta-1 receptors, which are primarily found in the heart. By selectively blocking these receptors, atenolol can reduce heart rate and blood pressure, making it a useful medication in conditions like hypertension and angina. Now, let's review why the other options are incorrect: A) Labetalol: Labetalol is a non-selective beta blocker, meaning it blocks both beta-1 and beta-2 receptors. It is not the correct answer for a selective blocker of beta-1 receptors. B) Prazosin: Prazosin is an alpha-1 adrenergic blocker, not a beta blocker. It works by blocking alpha-1 receptors, leading to vasodilation and reduced blood pressure. It is not selective for beta-1 receptors. D) Propranolol: Propranolol is a non-selective beta blocker, similar to labetalol. It blocks both beta-1 and beta-2 receptors, impacting both the heart and peripheral blood vessels. It is not the selective blocker of beta-1 adrenoreceptors. Educational Context: Understanding the selectivity of beta blockers is crucial in pharmacology, especially in nursing practice. Selective beta-1 blockers like atenolol are commonly used in managing cardiovascular conditions. Nurses need to know the differences between selective and non-selective blockers to ensure safe and effective medication administration based on the patient's condition and individual response to the drug. This knowledge contributes to optimal patient care and outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Nifedipine. Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker commonly used to treat hypertension and angina. One of its common side effects is reflex tachycardia. Nifedipine causes vasodilation which can lead to a compensatory increase in heart rate, hence causing tachycardia. Now, let's look at why the other options are incorrect: A) Propranolol is a beta-blocker, which actually works to decrease heart rate and blood pressure, so it would not cause tachycardia. B) Clonidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that lowers blood pressure by decreasing sympathetic outflow. It is not known to cause tachycardia. C) Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor that helps lower blood pressure by reducing the production of angiotensin II, which should not lead to tachycardia. Educational context: Understanding the side effects of common medications is crucial for nurses, especially in pharmacology. Knowing the expected side effects of drugs helps nurses anticipate and manage potential complications for their patients. This knowledge also ensures safe medication administration and effective patient care. Pharmaceutical knowledge is a fundamental component of nursing practice, and quizzes like this help reinforce key concepts for nurses in training.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Nitrates and calcium channel blockers reduce oxygen demand (via preload/afterload reduction) and increase oxygen delivery (via vasodilation/spasm relief). Beta-blockers reduce oxygen demand (via decreased heart rate and contractility) but do not reverse coronary spasm. Potassium channel openers like Minoxidil are vasodilators but are not primarily used in angina.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In nursing pharmacology, understanding the main clinical use of calcium channel blockers is crucial for safe and effective medication administration. The correct answer, "D) All of the above," is the most appropriate choice because calcium channel blockers are versatile drugs used in various clinical conditions. Angina pectoris is a condition characterized by chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. Calcium channel blockers help dilate coronary arteries, improving blood flow and reducing angina symptoms. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is another common indication for calcium channel blockers. These medications relax blood vessels, leading to decreased peripheral vascular resistance and lower blood pressure. Supraventricular tachyarrhythmias involve abnormal heart rhythms originating above the ventricles. Calcium channel blockers can help control these rapid heart rates by slowing down the conduction of electrical impulses in the heart. Option A, angina pectoris, and option B, hypertension, are commonly known uses of calcium channel blockers. Option C, supraventricular tachyarrhythmias, is also a recognized indication for these drugs. Educationally, understanding the broad spectrum of clinical applications for calcium channel blockers underscores the importance of pharmacological knowledge in nursing practice. Nurses need to be aware of the various uses of medications to ensure safe administration, monitor for therapeutic effects, and recognize potential adverse reactions. This question reinforces the significance of comprehensive pharmacology education for nursing students to deliver quality patient care.