Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 72%
Simulated
A nurse is assessing a client prior to administering atenolol. Which of the following findings should prompt the nurse to withhold the medication?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Heart rate 46/min. Atenolol is a beta-blocker that primarily works by slowing down the heart rate. A heart rate of 46/min is already low, and administering atenolol could further decrease it to dangerous levels, potentially causing bradycardia or heart block. Choices A, C, and D are within normal ranges and do not warrant withholding the medication.