Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 76%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who has chronic hypertension. The client's morning vital signs include BP 140/80 mm Hg, heart rate 54/min, and respiratory rate 18/min. Which of the following medications should the nurse plan to withhold?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: Atenolol. Atenolol is a beta-blocker that can further lower the heart rate, potentially causing bradycardia in a client with a heart rate of 54/min, which is already on the lower side. Withholding Atenolol in this case is important to prevent excessive bradycardia.
Choice A: Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor used to treat hypertension, and it would not be necessary to withhold it based on the vital signs provided.
Choice B: Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that helps lower blood pressure by reducing fluid volume. This medication is not contraindicated based on the client's vital signs.
Choice C: Aspirin is not typically withheld based on the client's vital signs unless there are specific contraindications present.
In summary, the nurse should withhold Atenolol due to the potential for further lowering the heart rate in a
Choice A: Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor used to treat hypertension, and it would not be necessary to withhold it based on the vital signs provided.
Choice B: Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that helps lower blood pressure by reducing fluid volume. This medication is not contraindicated based on the client's vital signs.
Choice C: Aspirin is not typically withheld based on the client's vital signs unless there are specific contraindications present.
In summary, the nurse should withhold Atenolol due to the potential for further lowering the heart rate in a