Question

A nurse is caring for a preschooler who has congestive heart failure. The nurse observes wide QRS complexes and peaked T waves on the cardiac monitor. Which of the following prescriptions should the nurse clarify with the provider?

A. Administer furosemide
B. Infuse normal saline
C. Administer atropine
D. Initiate dopamine infusion

Answer 1

The nurse should clarify the prescription to initiate a dopamine infusion with the provider because it can worsen the hyperkalemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should clarify prescription D, which is to initiate a dopamine infusion, with the provider. Wide QRS complexes and peaked T waves on the cardiac monitor are indicative of hyperkalemia (high potassium levels). Dopamine increases the release of norepinephrine, which can worsen the hyperkalemia and further affect the heart's electrical conduction system. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to clarify this prescription to ensure the safety of the preschooler.