The nurse is preparing to administer a cardiotonic drug to a client.Which assessment should the nurse perform before administering the medication?

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Before administering a cardiotonic drug, the nurse should assess the client's heart rate and rhythm by taking an apical pulse. This is important because cardiotonic drugs increase the force of contraction of the heart and can potentially cause negative effects on the cardiovascular system. The other assessments listed (respiratory rate, popliteal pulse, and capillary blanch test) do not directly assess the client's cardiovascular status and are not as pertinent to the administration of a cardiotonic drug.

The Nurse Is Preparing to Administer a Cardiotonic Drug to a Client.Which