Cardiac-Vascular Nursing (CVRN) Practice Exam

What signs might indicate a patient is experiencing postural hypotension after medication administration?

1. Increased blood pressure upon standing

2. Dizziness or lightheadedness when rising

3. Increased heart rate during rest

4. Decreased respiratory rate during activity

The correct answer is: Dizziness or lightheadedness when rising

Postural hypotension, also known as orthostatic hypotension, occurs when a person's blood pressure drops significantly upon standing up or changing positions. This drop in blood pressure can lead to symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness. When a patient experiences these sensations after medication administration, it suggests that the medication may be impacting the autonomic nervous system or blood volume regulation, which is affecting blood pressure stability upon standing. This symptom serves as an important clinical indicator for healthcare providers to reassess the patient's medication regimen or to provide further education on how to manage changes in posture safely. Other signs, such as tiredness or fainting, can also be associated, but the primary indicators are specifically related to the change in orientation and the resultant blood pressure decrease leading to the sensations mentioned.