A patient is taking amiodarone (Cordarone) for hypertrophic ...

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A patient is taking amiodarone (Cordarone) for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and begins to complain of dizziness. What will the nurse instruct the patient to do?
 
  a. Discontinue the medication immediately.
  b. Decrease the medication dosage for 1 week, and then resume the original order.
  c. Change positions slowly.
  d. Increase the dosage per health care provider directions.

Question 2

Which lidocaine preparation is appropriate for the treatment of cardiac dysrhythmias?
 
  a. 0.1 lidocaine with preservative
  b. 2 lidocaine for topical use
  c. Lidocaine patch
  d. Injectable lidocaine without preservative

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Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Many adverse effects are dose related and resolve with reducing the dosage or discontinuing therapy. Patients should be taught to rise slowly from a supine or sitting position and sit or lie down if feeling faint. Medication should be discontinued only for serious adverse effects and with the consent of the health care provider. Changes in dose should be done only with the consent of the health care provider. Increasing the dose will likely increase the symptoms.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Lidocaine for IV use is different from lidocaine used as a local anesthetic. The label for lidocaine for IV use should read lidocaine for dysrhythmias or lidocaine without preservatives. The 0.1 lidocaine, 2 lidocaine for topical use, and lidocaine patch are for topical anesthetic use.

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Thank you!

[upturnedfurball]

Always glad to help...