A nurse prepares to administer a scheduled dose of verapamil (Calan) to a patient with atrial flutter. The nurse records a heart rate of 92 and a blood pressure of 110/76 . In light of these findings, the nurse should
a. administer the dose as prescribed.
b. withhold the drug and notify the prescriber.
c. recheck the vital signs in 30 minutes and then administer the dose.
d. administer IV calcium gluconate.
A
Verapamil (Calan) is contraindicated for bradycardia and hypotension, but the patient does not have these symptoms and should receive the drug, because it is indicated for patients with atrial flutter.
The drug needs to be given as ordered.
The situation does not warrant vital sign monitoring and holding the drug for 30 minutes.
The situation does not require IV calcium gluconate.
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