Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

Which side effect should be monitored in a patient receiving milrinone therapy?

1. Hyperkalemia

2. Chest pain

3. Thrombocytopenia

4. Decreased urination

The correct answer is: Chest pain

In the context of milrinone therapy, monitoring for chest pain is significant due to the drug's pharmacological effects. Milrinone is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor that has inotropic properties, meaning it enhances cardiac contractility, which can lead to increased myocardial oxygen demand. This rise in demand can result in ischemic pain or chest discomfort, especially in patients with underlying coronary artery disease or compromised cardiac function. Monitoring for chest pain is essential to promptly identify and manage potential myocardial ischemia or worsening heart failure symptoms. Correctly identifying chest pain can guide further interventions or adjustments in treatment to improve patient outcomes. While the other options may comprise considerations in broader clinical practice, they are less directly associated with milrinone therapy. Hyperkalemia can occur with certain medications, but milrinone is not primarily associated with increasing potassium levels. Thrombocytopenia is not commonly linked to milrinone, and while decreased urination can be a sign of renal impairment, it is not a primary side effect typically connected with milrinone therapy. Thus, focusing on chest pain helps in managing the immediate cardiovascular risks associated with this treatment.