Medications

Question 1

Describe the effects of beta-blockers and state the significance to PT.

Answer 1

i) reduce HR
ii) reduce BP
iii) reduce myocardial contractility
Indications: CAD, angina, HTN, arrhythmias
PT role:
i) blunted HR & BP response - use RPE!
ii) require gradual warm up and cool down
iii) may be hypotensive (dizziness, falls etc.)
Note: suffix “olol”

Question 2

Describe the effects of nitrate and nitroglycerin and state the significance to PT.

Answer 2

i) relax smooth muscle in blood vessels
ii) improve blood flow to and reduce work of heart.
Indications: angina, CHF, acute MI.
PT role:
i) potential for hypotension
ii) allows greater exercise capacity for pts w/ angina

Question 3

Explain the principles of taking nitroglycerin.

Answer 3

Keep in mind:

i) storage (cool, dry space)
ii) expiration date
iii) prime it first

i) take doses 3-5min apart.
ii) Wait 5 min X 3 before going to the hospital.

Question 4

Describe the effects of ACE inhibitors and state the significance to PT.

Answer 4

i) block angiotensin to block vasoconstriction (reduce peripheral resistance)
ii) diuretic
Indications: HTN, CHF/CVD, MI, Kidney fx for diabetics
PT role:
i) potential for hypotension
ii) gradual warm up and cool down

Question 5

Describe the effects of niacin and state the significance to PT.

Answer 5

i) reduce cholesterol
ii) improve CVD mortality, even if normal cholesterol.
PT role:
i) hypotension

Question 6

Describe the effects of statins and state the significance to PT.

Answer 6

i) reduce cholesterol
PT role:
i) muscle aches and WEAKNESS
ii) joint stiffness
iv) dizziness

Question 7

Describe the effects of antiplatelet agents and state the significance to PT.

Answer 7

i) reduce platelet aggregation
Indications: reduce MI/TIA/stroke risk
PT role:
i) increased bruising and bleeding.