The nurse has provided information to a patient with diabetes who ...

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The nurse has provided information to a patient with diabetes who has been prescribed a beta-adrenergic blocker. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?
 
  a. If I get dizzy, I will stop taking the medication.
  b. I may not have my usual symptoms of low blood sugars.
  c. My dosage may need adjustment if I start taking any NSAIDs.
  d. I will need to be evaluated in a few weeks to see if my dosage is effective.

Question 2

When displayed by the patient, which symptom would be most indicative to the nurse to withhold a recently prescribed beta-adrenergic blocker?
 
  a. Dizziness
  b. Peripheral edema
  c. Hyperglycemia
  d. Wheezing

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Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Patients should never stop taking beta-adrenergic blocking agents suddenly because this can result in exacerbation of angina symptoms. Dizziness should resolve with therapy and patients should be taught how to manage this side effect safely. The patient may not experience the usual symptoms of low blood sugar. The dosage of the beta blocker may need to be increased to compensate for the antihypertensive inhibitory effect of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The patient will need to be evaluated to see if the dosage is effective.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Wheezing in a patient taking beta-adrenergic blockers could indicate the adverse effect of bronchial constriction. Dizziness may indicate changes in blood pressure and safety precautions should be taken, but the medication does not have to be stopped. Peripheral edema may indicate cardiovascular problems, but the medication may have been prescribed to help these conditions. It would not warrant stopping the medication. Hyperglycemia may indicate a need for other interventions but would not be a reason to stop the medication.

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TYSM

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Excellent