The nurse is caring for a patient who has been taking amiodarone (Cordarone) for several months. The patient begins to exhibit dyspnea and coughing and complains of chest pain. The nurse is correct to suspect
a. cardiovascular toxicity.
b. pulmonary toxicity.
c. heart failure.
d. an impending myocardial infarction.
ANS: B
Lung damage is the most serious adverse effect of amiodarone (Cordarone).
Cardiovascular toxicity is evidenced by a paradoxical increase in dysrhythmic activity.
The patient's symptoms (dyspnea, cough, chest pain) are similar to those of heart failure and pneumonia; however, these symptoms are associated with the prolongation of amiodarone in the system.
No evidence indicates an impending MI.
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