A nurse is collecting data from a client following his first dose of captopril.The client's blood pressure is 88/60 mm Hg. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationale:Checking blood pressure with the client standing could exacerbate the client’s symptoms due to orthostatic hypotension, which is a common side effect of captopril.Choice B rationale:Administering a 0.9% sodium chloride IV bolus could be considered if the client’s blood pressure does not improve with positioning changes or if the client’s condition worsens.Choice C rationale:Placing the client in a supine position can help increase blood flow to the brain and alleviate symptoms of low blood pressure. This should be the first action taken by the nurse.Choice D rationale:Measuring blood pressure with the client sitting could also exacerbate symptoms due to orthostatic hypotension. It would be more appropriate after the client’s condition has stabilized.