The nurse is caring for a post-myocardial infarction (MI) ...

[theo]

The nurse is caring for a post-myocardial infarction (MI) patient. The patient questions the reason for a stool softener and denies constipation. Which statement indicates that the patient accurately understands the nurse's teaching?
 
  a. Stool softeners help me keep from straining during bowel movements, which can lower my heart rate.
  b. Stool softeners help me to get rid of extra wastes that can harm my heart.
  c. Stool softeners help reduce swelling that can increase work on my heart.
  d. Stool softeners help to reduce discomfort from gas pains.

Question 2

Which action describes a function of aldosterone?
 
  a. Conserve water
  b. Excrete sodium
  c. Constrict blood vessels
  d. Excrete phosphorus

[Ashley I]

Answer to Question 1

A
Bearing down or straining at stool can stimulate the vagal nerve and induce bradycardia.

Answer to Question 2

A
Aldosterone is classified as a mineralocorticoid. It promotes conservation of water by acting on the kidneys to retain sodium in exchange for potassium, which is excreted in the urine.