A client presents to the healthcare setting and is ordered verapamil (Calan) to treat his hypertension. Which assessment finding by the nurse would determine if the medication should be held?

A. A pulse oximetry of 92% indicates mild hypoxia but does not directly contraindicate the use of verapamil. B. A respiratory rate of 12 is within the normal range for adults and does not indicate a need to hold the medication. C. A pulse of 78 is within the normal range but should be assessed in the context of the client’s overall condition; however, if the pulse were significantly lower (e.g., <60 bpm), it would necessitate holding the medication due to the risk of bradycardia. D. A history of myocardial infarction a week ago would warrant caution but is not an absolute reason to hold verapamil unless other contraindications are present, as verapamil can be beneficial for managing hypertension post-MI.