An older adult patient is to receive atenolol, a beta-adrenergic ...

[biggirl4568]

An older adult patient is to receive atenolol, a beta-adrenergic blocking agent. Prior to administration of the drug, the nurse assesses an apical pulse rate of 58 and notes ankle edema. Which action will the nurse take first?
 
  a. Determine the therapeutic blood level.
  b. Encourage the patient to decrease water intake.
  c. Elevate the patient's legs.
  d. Withhold the medication.

Question 2

A long-term care resident is taking an anticholinergic agent. The nurse observes the resident to be disoriented and hallucinating. The priority nursing action is to
 
  a. report development of alterations to the charge nurse.
  b. assess blood glucose.
  c. provide for resident's safety.
  d. medicate with antianxiety medication.

[macmac]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
These signs and symptoms are indicative of serious adverse effects, and the medication should be held or discontinued until the patient is evaluated by a health care provider. Determining the therapeutic blood level, encouraging the patient to decrease water intake, and elevating the patient's legs are not the first actions that should be taken.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Serious psychological side effects of anticholinergic agents include confusion, depression, nightmares, and hallucinations. The priority nursing action at onset of confusion and hallucinations is safety. Once the resident is safe, development of alterations may be reported. Blood glucose may be monitored once safety is established. If appropriate medications are ordered by the physician, they can be provided once the resident is calm and safe.

[biggirl4568]

Both answers were spot on, thank you once again

[macmac]

Great! Please up vote