The nurse is preparing to administer a cardiotonic drug to a client. Which assessment should the nurse perform before administering the medication?

Question

1. Respiratory rate
2. Apical pulse
3. Popliteal pulse
4. Capillary blanch test

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: The nurse does not need to assess the client's respiratory rate before providing the medication.
Rationale 2: The apical pulse should be assessed before administering any cardiotonic medication.
Rationale 3: The client's popliteal pulse does not need to be assessed prior to receiving this medication.
Rationale 4: The client's capillary blanching does not need to be assessed prior to receiving this medication.