A 55-year-old male client is admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with a diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction. He has a T wave inversion and elevation of the ST segment. The EKG indicates myocardial ischemia and necrosis. He is started on lidocaine hydrochloride by IV infusion. He is also given aspirin 325 mg PO, heparin subcutaneous 5,000 units bid, and atenolol (Tenormin) 50 mg PO daily. It should be noted the client received morphine 10 mg IV to relieve chest pain in the emergency room.
What assessments should be made prior to the administration of these medications?
What information about the medications should be explained to the client?
For what adverse effects of the medications should the nurse be alert and assess?
Sample Solution
