What would be the teaching priority for a diabetic patient being treated with a nonselective beta-blocker?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Because the beta-blockers stop the signs and symptoms of a sympathetic stress reaction, the signs and symptoms associated with hypo- or hyperglycemia, the diabetic patient taking a beta-blocker will need to understand this and learn new indicators of these reactions. Taking his pulse, weekly weighing, and avoiding smoke-filled rooms are good health practices and should be done, but not specifically needed by a diabetic patient taking a beta-blocker. The nurse should emphasize the importance of recognizing new signs of blood glucose fluctuations.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that works by promoting potassium retention in the body. Therefore, patients taking spironolactone are at a higher risk of developing hyperkalemia, which is an elevated level of potassium in the blood. Hyperkalemia can lead to serious complications such as cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and even cardiac arrest. It is important for the nurse to monitor patients on spironolactone for signs and symptoms of hyperkalemia, such as weakness, numbness, tingling, or an irregular heartbeat. Other diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide (A), furosemide (B), and acetazolamide (C) do not typically cause hyperkalemia as they work to decrease potassium levels in the body.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: H1 receptor antagonists, also known as antihistamines, primarily work by blocking the effects of histamine in the body. Histamine is involved in allergic reactions, itching, and motion sickness. Therefore, H1 receptor antagonists are commonly used for the treatment of allergic reactions, relief of itching, and prophylaxis of motion sickness. They are also sometimes used for the common cold to alleviate symptoms such as runny nose and sneezing. However, H1 receptor antagonists are not typically used as the main treatment for asthma, as they are not as effective in addressing the underlying inflammation and bronchoconstriction that occur in asthma. Asthma is usually managed with medications such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids that target the specific inflammatory pathways involved in asthma.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Furosemide reduces fluid overload in heart failure by diuresis, decreasing edema , a direct therapeutic sign. BP may drop, not rise. Heart rate isn't primary'preload reduction matters. Thirst is a side effect. Edema reduction aligns with furosemide's action, critical in heart failure where congestion drives symptoms, making A the key finding.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: GTN patches deliver the drug transdermally, bypassing first-pass metabolism and providing systemic therapeutic action.