Question

The nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving several cardiac medications designed to stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, vitamin B12, and an H2 blocker. The nurse should do which of the following?

a.Assess for signs of peptic ulcer.
b. Be watchful for increased saliva production.
c.Evaluate for a decrease in potassium level.
d.Give the patient medications to prevent anemia.

Answer 1

The nurse should assess for signs of peptic ulcer and be watchful for increased saliva production. There is no association between the medications and a decrease in potassium level or the need to prevent anemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should assess for signs of peptic ulcer. One of the possible side effects of H2 blockers is an increased risk of developing peptic ulcers. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to monitor for any signs and symptoms of peptic ulcers in the patient receiving this medication.

In addition, the nurse should also be watchful for increased saliva production. Stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system can cause an increase in saliva production. This can occur due to the action of certain cardiac medications, such as beta blockers, which work by blocking the beta-1 receptors associated with vasoconstriction and cardioacceleration.

Lastly, there is no direct association between the medications the patient is receiving and a decrease in potassium level or the need to give medications to prevent anemia.