Calcium channel blockers

Question 1

WHat type of drug is diltiazem?

Answer 1

Calcium channel blocker

Question 2

what is the indication for diltiazem?

Answer 2

hypertension, heart failure, angina, cardiac arrhythmias (afib)

Question 3

what type of calcium channel blocker is diltiazem?

Answer 3

myocardial selective: non dihydropyridines

Question 4

what is the action of calcium channel diltiazem (CCB)

Answer 4

inhibits the movement of calcium ions across the membrane of myocardial and arterial smooth muscle tissues.

• reduces the heart muscles ability to contract (relaxes the heart)
• decreases BP, PVR, after load, HR
• improves O2 delivery

Question 5

what are the adverse effects of diltiazem?

Answer 5

constipation, bradycardia, hyperprolactinea

- headache, reflex tachy, dizziness, flushing of skin, edema, gingival hyperplasia

Question 6

contraindications for diltiazem

Answer 6

- brady cardia
heartblock sick sinus 
HF
Preggo 
renal/hepatic disease

Question 7

Drug interactions for diltiazem

Answer 7

betablockers
digoxin
st. johns wort

Question 8

food interactions with diltiazem

Answer 8

grape fruit juice

Question 9

What labs should be run for diltiazem

Answer 9

CBC, Na, K, creatinine, BUN, liver function test, urinalysis

Question 10

Nursing considerations for diltiazem

Answer 10

Assess BP and HR before admine (if BP is <90 do not administer)
Assess pain for angina : if getting worse 911
Provide dental care for patient

Question 11

PT EDU for diltiazem

Answer 11

• do not stop abruptly
• report severe or worsening angina
• do not crush or chew tablets
• increase fiber for constipation
• orthostatic hypotension : move positions slowly
• how to take vitals
• life stye modifications