Question

The nurse is assessing a client with hypertension who reports experiencing dizziness after taking prescribed diltiazem. It is most important that the nurse assesses for which client characteristic?

A
Activity and rest patterns
B
Daily intake of potassium
C
Appearance of feet and ankles
D
Schedule for taking medication

Answer 1

The nurse should prioritize assessing is the client's daily intake of potassium. Dizziness after taking diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker, may be related to potassium imbalance. Monitoring potassium levels is crucial for managing potential electrolyte imbalances. The answer is B. Daily intake of potassium.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important client characteristic for the nurse to assess in this scenario is the daily intake of potassium.

Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker that can cause side effects such as dizziness. One potential concern is the possibility of hypokalemia (low potassium levels), which can be exacerbated by the use of certain antihypertensive medications. Symptoms of hypokalemia can include dizziness.

Assessing the client's daily intake of potassium is crucial as it can help determine if the dizziness is related to potassium imbalance. Monitoring and addressing potassium levels may be necessary, and adjustments to diet or medications might be required to manage potential electrolyte imbalances.