PharmacologyQuestion 78 of 100
Before administering a beta blocker such as metoprolol, which assessment is most important?
a.Measure the apical pulse and blood pressure, and hold the dose and notify the provider if the pulse is below 60 beats per minute
b.Measure the patient's height and calculate BMI
c.Check the patient's visual acuity with a Snellen chart
d.Ask the patient to rate their pain from 0 to 10
Explanation
Beta blockers slow heart rate and lower blood pressure, so the pulse and blood pressure are checked first and the dose is withheld with provider notification when the pulse falls below about 60 beats per minute. Height, BMI, vision screening, and pain scores do not detect the drug's main risk. Skipping the pulse check can allow dangerous bradycardia.
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