A nurse is preparing to assist a nursing student to administer intravenous verapamil to a patient who also receives a beta blocker. The nurse asks the nursing student to discuss the plan of care for this patient. Which statement by the student indicates a need for further teaching?
A) "I will check to see when the last dose of the beta blocker was given."
B) "I will monitor vital signs closely to assess for hypotension."
C) "I will monitor the heart rate frequently to assess for reflex tachycardia."
D) "I will prepare to administer intravenous norepinephrine if necessary."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reflex tachycardia is not an expected effect; the greater risks are cardiosuppression and bradycardia. Because beta blockers and verapamil have the same effects on the heart, there is a risk of excessive cardiosuppression. To minimize this risk, the two drugs should be given several hours apart. Hypotension may occur and should be treated with IV norepinephrine.

A Nurse Is Preparing to Assist a Nursing Student to Administer