Final answer:
The nurse should emphasize that the client must notify their health care provider if they experience a slow, irregular heart rate as a result of taking atenolol, a beta blocker used to treat hypertension. This could signal bradycardia, which is a potentially life-threatening condition. c) Slow, irregular heart rate Correct Answer .
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse should inform the client that if they experience a slow, irregular heart rate, they should immediately notify their health care provider. Atenolol is a beta blocker that works by blocking beta-1 receptors, which can slow heart rate (HR) and is used in the treatment of hypertension. An overprescription or heightened sensitivity to these drugs may lead to adverse effects such as bradycardia, which is a slower than normal heart rate, and in extreme cases, even heart stoppage.
While all listed side effects are important to monitor, the critical nature of a slow, irregular heart rate, also known as bradycardia, can be life-threatening and warrants immediate medical attention. This effect directly relates to the action of atenolol on the cardiac system. Similarly, the patient should be aware that signs of hypotension (low blood pressure), such as dizziness in the morning, may also be indicative of excessive beta blocker effect. While decreased libido and decreased exercise tolerance are potential side effects, they are not as immediately concerning as a significant change in heart rate.