Pharmacology Proctored ATI Practice Exam

A nurse is reviewing a client's medical record with hypertension and a new prescription for metoprolol. What should the nurse further investigate?

1. A history of asthma

2. A history of left-sided heart failure

3. Recent weight loss

4. Increased cholesterol levels

The correct answer is: A history of left-sided heart failure

The nurse should further investigate a history of left-sided heart failure when reviewing a client's medical record with hypertension and a new prescription for metoprolol because metoprolol is a beta-blocker that can worsen heart failure symptoms in patients with left-sided heart failure. Beta-blockers can cause negative inotropic effects, leading to decreased contractility in the heart, which can exacerbate heart failure symptoms in these patients. It is essential for the nurse to assess the client's heart failure status to determine if metoprolol is appropriate for this particular individual. Options A, C, and D are not directly contraindicated with the use of metoprolol in patients with hypertension, so they would not be the priority for further investigation in this scenario.