Exam 2: Hypertension

Question 1

things to watch for/ pt. teaching for thiazide diuretics for treatment of hypertension?

Answer 1

WATCH BUN and CREATININE Levels.
Not for patients in renal failure
Watch patients who are taking Lithium (increases chances of Lithium toxicity)
WASTE POTASSIUM…educate about potassium supplement compliance, and photosensitivity

Question 2

things to watch for/ pt. teaching for ACE inhibitors

Answer 2

Prevent vasoconstriction by blocking Angiotension 1 and 2
Educate pt about a dry cough/taste changes
Avoid potassium substitutes or supplement…this drug causes potassium retention
Compliance very important due to rebound hypertension
Captopril (increased risk of bleeding) and Moexipril…take 1 hour BEFORE a meal

Question 3

things to watch for while giving ARBS (ends in -sartan)

Answer 3

Same side effects as ACEI (except dry cough)

Question 4

things to watch: CCB (Calcium Channel Blockers): end in “dipine” Amlodipine, and Cardizem, Verapamil

Answer 4

Slow the heart rate to decrease the work load on the heart and cause vasodilation which lowers blood pressure
Watch HR: bradycardia
Watch pts who have CHF or AV blocks

Question 5

things to watch for: BB: Beta blockers: end in “olol” ex: Labetalol, Metoprolol

Answer 5

Not for patients with asthma and COPD because this medication blocks the receptors in the lungs and causes bronchoconstriction
Monitor Glucose levels in diabetics because it conceals the signs of hypoglycemia
Monitor heart rate and for orthostatic hypotension