An older patient has been prescribed a potassium-sparing diuretic ...

[maychende]

An older patient has been prescribed a potassium-sparing diuretic and a beta-blocker for hypertension. Which action should be a priority for the nurse?
 
  A) Monitor the patient for constipation
  B) Closely monitor the patient's electrolyte levels
  C) Ensure the patient does not change position quickly to prevent a fall
  D) Assess the patient for changes in level of consciousness and cognition

Question 2

Part of the job responsibility of a nurse who works for a team of physicians is to provide documentation about elderly patients who may need nursing home care. Which of the following patients meets the criteria for being classified as frail?
 
  A) Mrs. A is inactive, walks slowly, and has many colds.
  B) Mrs. B has many colds, tires easily, and has lost 15 pounds in the past year.
  C) Mr. C has lost 20 pounds in the past year, cannot grip utensils, and is inactive.
  D) Mr. D has lost 20 pounds in the past year, is inactive, and has many colds.

[Ashley I]

Answer to Question 1

C
Feedback:
Antihypertensive therapy, especially when first initiated or changed, carries a risk of orthostatic hypotension and subsequent falls. Although electrolytes would be monitored, the potassium-sparing nature of the diuretic makes this less urgent than ensuring safety. Cognitive changes and constipation are less likely side effects of diuretic and beta-blocker therapy.

Answer to Question 2

C
Feedback:
Only Mr. C meets three of the criteria for frailty. The others meet only two; having many colds is not a criterion for frailty.