Which medication should a nurse clarify to administer instead of withholding based on a postoperative client's NPO status?

In the context of postoperative care and a patient's NPO (nil per os) status, it is essential to ensure that critical medications are administered to prevent complications such as hypertension or cardiopulmonary events. Atenolol (Tenormin) is a beta-blocker used primarily for managing hypertension and protecting the heart, especially in patients who may have pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.

Continuing beta-blockade is particularly important for postoperative patients, as abrupt withdrawal of these medications can lead to rebound hypertension and increased risk of cardiovascular events. Therefore, even if a patient is NPO, administering atenolol, if it is critical for maintaining hemodynamic stability, can be justified when considering a patient’s specific clinical condition and medical history.

In contrast, other medications in the choices, such as metoprolol, lisinopril, and aspirin, may have alternative management strategies when a patient is NPO. For instance, metoprolol may also be required in certain situations similar to atenolol; however, its administration could also be more easily substituted with intravenous options if necessary. Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor whose administration can generally be delayed without immediate significant effects. Aspirin, being an antiplatelet agent, is