A patient who was recently diagnosed with hypertension and placed ...

[maychende]

A patient who was recently diagnosed with hypertension and placed on propranolol (Inderal) is seen in the clinic for an unrelated issue.
 
  When the nurse notes that his blood pressure is elevated, she asks if the patient has been taking his medication and he says he quit because I didn't like how I felt when I took it. Based on this statement, what would be an appropriate response?
 
  1. Many male patients experience side effects of this drug, which include altered libido and impotence. This is common. Tell me how you felt when you took the drug.
  2. You shouldn't stop taking the drug without first talking to the doctor
  3. Write a note in the patient's record but say nothing to the patient.
  4. I'm going to give you some information about this medication for you to take home and read. At your next visit, I'll have the doctor talk to you about it.

Question 2

After prostate surgery a patient is being discharged with an indwelling urinary catheter in place. What teaching should the nurse provide to this patient?
 
  Select all that apply.
  1. Use the larger urinary drainage bag at night.
  2. Keep the larger urinary drainage bag at a level that permits gravity drainage.
  3. Do not strap the leg bag too tightly.
  4. Place a soft cloth between the leg bag and the skin.
  5. Empty the leg bag at least twice a day.

[jennafosdick]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1
Antihypertensive drugs are a common cause of erectile dysfunction (ED) and loss of libido, and many men do not report the disorder. The side effects should be discussed at the time the prescription is given and reviewed at any follow-up visits. Offering an opening to discuss sexual dysfunction is relevant. Admonishing a patient for not taking medications and merely noting the issue in the patient's chart does not address the problem. Offering factual information is relevant but, in this case, the patient's hypertension remains untreated.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3, 4
Teaching for the patient who is going home with an indwelling urinary catheter should include using the larger urinary drainage bag at night and hanging it on the bed frame to permit gravity drainage; avoiding strapping the leg bag too tightly to prevent decreased venous return; placing a soft cloth between the leg bag and the skin to prevent skin irritation; and emptying the leg bag every three to four hours during waking hours to prevent overfilling.

[maychende]

Excellent

[gcook]

Gracias!