ATI LPN
Cardiovascular NCLEX Questions with Rationale Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which action should the nurse take when giving the first dose of oral labetalol to a patient with hypertension?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Labetalol decreases sympathetic nervous system activity by blocking both α-and β-adrenergic receptors, leading to vasodilation and a decrease in heart rate, which can cause severe orthostatic hypotension. Heart palpitations, dry mouth, dehydration, and headaches are possible side effects of other antihypertensives.
Question 2 of 5
A patient with a history of hypertension treated with a diuretic and an angiotensin-converting enzyme(ACE) inhibitor arrives in the emergency department complaining of a severe headache and nausea and has a blood pressure(BP) of 238/118 mm Hg. Which question should the nurse ask first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Sudden withdrawal of antihypertensive medications can cause rebound hypertension and hypertensive crisis. Although many over-the-counter medications can cause hypertension, antihistamines and acetaminophen do not increase BP. Stressful events will increase BP but not usually to the level seen in this patient.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is assessing a patient new to the clinic. Records brought to the clinic with the patient show the patient has hypertension and that her current BP readings approximate the readings from when she was first diagnosed. What contributing factor should the nurse first explore in an effort to identify the cause of the client's inadequate BP control?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Deviation from the therapeutic program is a significant problem for people with hypertension and other chronic conditions requiring lifetime management. An estimated $50 \%$ of patients discontinue their medications within 1 year of beginning to take them. Consequently, this is a more likely problem than substance use, organ damage, or adverse drug interactions.
Question 4 of 5
A patient's recently elevated BP has prompted the primary care provider to prescribe furosemide (Lasix). The nurse should closely monitor which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Loop diuretics can cause potassium depletion. They do not normally affect level of consciousness, erythrocytes, or oxygen saturation.
Question 5 of 5
Regarding arrhythmias, which is TRUE?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In atrial fibrillation, the atria beat rapidly and irregularly, leading to variable ventricular response rates.