An older adult client is diagnosed with cardiomyopathy and a ...

[big1devin]

An older adult client is diagnosed with cardiomyopathy and a cardiac dysrhythmia. What would the nurse expect to be prescribed for this client?
 
  A) Beta blocker
  B) Digoxin
  C) Nitrate medications
  D) Fluids

Question 2

The nurse is concerned that a client with an alteration in perfusion is at risk for inadequate oxygenation. What should the nurse consider when planning for this client's potential health problem?
 
  A) Encouraging ambulation every thirty minutes
  B) Instructing on deep breathing
  C) Administering medications appropriate to increase heart rate
  D) Positioning to increase blood return

[lkoler]

Answer to Question 1

Answer: A

Treatment for cardiomyopathy includes calcium channel blockers, beta blockers, and antiarrhythmics. Nitrates should be avoided because they increase blood pressure. Digoxin should be avoided because it increases the force of contractions. The client should be on a sodium and fluid restriction and not be encouraged to drink fluids.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: B

The client is at risk for inadequate oxygenation. The nurse should consider teaching the client the importance of deep breathing to increase the amount of oxygen in the body tissues. Encouraging ambulation every thirty minutes would negatively impact oxygenation. Periods of rest should occur between activities and no activity should be too strenuous. The client with oxygenation issues will have tachycardia. The nurse should consider medications that would reduce instead of increase the heart rate. The client should be in the high-Fowler position to improve oxygenation. Positions to increase blood flow to the heart would include Trendelenburg, which would negatively impact oxygenation.