NURS 3100 Exam 1 Practice

A client with hypertension is taking a potent antihypertensive without results. The client is concerned when the healthcare provider orders a new drug. What is the nurse's response?

1. The drug you took is very potent and a higher dose is needed

2. The new drug has a greater efficacy, so it will help reduce your blood pressure

3. The prescriber must have made an error in the orders

4. You are correct. I think the prescriber meant to order both drugs

The correct answer is: The new drug has a greater efficacy, so it will help reduce your blood pressure

When a client with hypertension is taking a potent antihypertensive without seeing results and a healthcare provider orders a new drug, the nurse's response would be to explain that the new drug has a greater efficacy, meaning it is more effective in reducing blood pressure compared to the current medication. This response reassures the client that the change in medication is intended to improve their condition by providing a drug that is more likely to effectively lower their blood pressure. Option A suggesting a higher dose of the current medication may not necessarily be the solution, as sometimes a different class of medication is needed for better control. Option C implying a prescriber error is not a helpful response without further evidence or clarification. Option D assuming a misunderstanding in the prescription is premature without confirming with the prescriber first.