Pharmacology in Cardiovascular Nursing

Questions and Answers

Following the administration of sublingual nitroglycerin to a client experiencing an acute anginal attack, which assessment finding indicates to the nurse that the desired effect has been achieved?

Client's pulse decreases from 120 to 90.

Client's systolic blood pressure decreases from 180 to 90.

Client states chest pain is relieved. (correct)

Client's SaO2 level increases from 92% to 96%.

What diagnostic test should a client be advised to have monitored regularly after being discharged on warfarin?

Prothrombin Time (PT/INR)

What additional drug allergy is most important to assess for before administering cephalexin?

Penicillin

Which medication prescription decreases both preload and afterload in a client with acute myocardial infarction?

Nitroglycerin. Signup and view all the answers

Which dosing schedule should the nurse teach for a controlled-release oxycodone prescription?

Every 12 hours. Signup and view all the answers

What is the optimum time for the nurse to obtain the trough level for a client receiving antibiotic therapy?

Immediately before the next antibiotic dose is given Signup and view all the answers

What is the best response for the nurse to provide when a client asks why he is receiving low molecular weight heparin?

This medication is a blood thinner given to prevent blood clot formation. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Sublingual Nitroglycerin in Angina

Effective assessment of angina relief is the client reporting chest pain relief.
Nitroglycerin decreases myocardial oxygen consumption, alleviating ischemia and pain.

Warfarin Post-Heparin Treatment

After heparin discharge, clients should regularly check Prothrombin Time (PT/INR).
Therapeutic goal for warfarin therapy: PT 1.5 to 2.5 times control or INR of 2 to 3.

Cephalexin and Penicillin Allergy

Important to assess for penicillin allergy before administering cephalexin (Keflex).
Cross-reactivity may occur between cephalosporins and penicillins.

Medications in Acute Myocardial Infarction

Nitroglycerin is prescribed to decrease both preload and afterload in myocardial infarction.
It promotes peripheral vasodilation and reduces myocardial oxygen consumption.

Controlled-Release Oxycodone Dosing

Controlled-release oxycodone should be administered every 12 hours for effective pain management.
This schedule provides long-acting analgesia for moderate to severe pain.

Trough Level Monitoring in Antibiotic Therapy

Trough levels should be obtained immediately before the next antibiotic dose to ensure blood levels are at their lowest.
Optimal timing is crucial for accurate measurement of antibiotic effectiveness.

Low Molecular Weight Heparin (LMWH) Purpose

LMWH is a blood thinner aimed at preventing blood clot development post-surgery.
It does not dissolve existing clots or enhance antibiotic effectiveness, but reduces clotting risk during recovery.

Description

This quiz covers key pharmacological treatments for cardiac conditions, including the roles of nitroglycerin and warfarin. It also addresses important considerations like drug allergies and dosage scheduling for optimal patient care. Test your knowledge on these critical nursing concepts!