Question

A client admitted to a health care facility with cardiac arrhythmia is prescribed propranolol. Which of the following would the nurse closely monitor as part of the ongoing assessment during the therapy?

A) Pulse rate
B) Tendon reflexes
C) Hydration
D) Visual acuity

Answer 1

Propranolol, a beta blocker prescribed for cardiac arrhythmia, necessitates close monitoring of the patient's pulse rate to detect changes in cardiac rhythm and prevent complications like bradycardia.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client admitted with cardiac arrhythmia and prescribed propranolol, a beta blocker, would require close monitoring of their pulse rate. Propranolol works by blocking beta-1 receptors, which can lower heart rate (HR) and is used in the treatment of hypertension. However, overprescription or incorrect dosing can lead to bradycardia or even heart stoppage. Therefore, it is paramount to perform an ongoing assessment of the patient’s pulse to detect any substantive changes in their cardiac rhythm.

Nonetheless, other factors like altered electrolyte levels, specifically potassium and sodium, as well as autonomic tone can also influence HR and cardiac function. A significant imbalance in these electrolytes, e.g., hypokalemia or hyperkalemia, could exacerbate or precipitate arrhythmias, indicating the importance of overall electrolyte balance and hydration monitoring in patients on propranolol therapy.