Cardiovascular Drugs and Medications Q 66

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A client is receiving procainamide (Procanbid) for the treatment of ventricular arrhythmia. The client suddenly complains of nausea and drowsiness. Which of the intervention should the nurse do first?

  

     A. Check the blood pressure and heart rate.

     B. Do a 12-lead electrocardiogram right away.

     C. Measure the heart rate on the rhythm strip.

     D. Give hydralazine (Apresoline) per orem.

    

    

Correct Answer: A. Check the blood pressure and heart rate.

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The client is experiencing signs of procainamide toxicity, the priority nursing action is to obtain vital signs immediately.

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Options B & C: Doing a 12-lead electrocardiogram and measuring the heart rate on the rhythm strip are done after checking the vital signs.

Option D: Giving hydralazine (Apresoline) per orem will cause hypotension.

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