Question

A nurse in a provider's office is assessing a client who has hypertension and takes propranolol. Which finding should indicate an adverse reaction to this medicine?

A) Increased heart rate
B) Elevated blood pressure
C) Bradycardia
D) Decreased respiratory rate

Answer 1

The correct answer to the potential adverse reaction to propranolol for a client with hypertension is bradycardia, which is a slower than normal heart rate (C). Propranolol is a β-blocker that antagonizes adrenaline, which can lead to reduced heart rate as an adverse effect.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse assessing a client with hypertension who takes propranolol should be aware of potential adverse reactions to this medication. Propranolol is a β-blocker that works by blocking beta-1 receptors, which in turn slows the heart rate (HR) as a means of treating hypertension. This blocking effect can antagonize adrenaline's stimulatory influence on the heart and blood pressure.

An adverse reaction to consider in this context would be bradycardia, which is a slower than normal heart rate. Overprescription or high sensitivity to β-blockers like propranolol can significantly decrease the heart rate, potentially leading to this condition. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is C) Bradycardia. Other symptoms such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and decreased respiratory rate are typically not associated with propranolol's pharmacological action.