A client who is hypotensive is receiving dopamine, an adrenergic agonist, intravenously (IV) at the rate of 8 mg/kg/min. Which intervention should the nurse implement while administering this medication?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationale While seizure precautions are important for clients receiving certain medications or with certain conditions, they are not typically necessary for clients receiving dopamine. Dopamine, an adrenergic agonist, does not typically increase the risk of seizures. Choice B rationale Assessing pupillary response to light hourly is not typically necessary for clients receiving dopamine. Dopamine does not typically affect pupillary response. Choice C rationale Measuring urinary output every hour is an important intervention for a client receiving dopamine. Dopamine at low to moderate doses can dilate renal blood vessels, which can increase urine output. Therefore, monitoring urinary output can help assess the effectiveness of the medication and the client’s renal perfusion. Choice D rationale While it is important to monitor electrolyte levels in clients receiving certain medications, frequent monitoring of serum potassium is not typically necessary for clients receiving dopamine. Dopamine does not typically affect serum potassium levels.