Vasodilator antihypertensive medications Flashcards
What is the primary action of vasodilator antihypertensive medications?
To relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
True or False: Vasodilators can be used to treat heart failure.
True.
Name one common generic vasodilator medication.
Hydralazine.
What is a common adverse effect of vasodilator antihypertensive medications?
Hypotension.
Fill in the blank: Vasodilators primarily work by __________.
relaxing smooth muscle in blood vessel walls.
What nursing intervention is important when administering vasodilators?
Monitor blood pressure regularly.
Which vasodilator can be administered intravenously for hypertensive emergencies?
Nitroprusside.
True or False: Vasodilators can cause reflex tachycardia.
True.
What is the mechanism of action of hydralazine?
It causes direct relaxation of vascular smooth muscle.
Name an adverse effect specifically associated with nitroprusside.
Cyanide toxicity.
What should be monitored due to the risk of fluid retention when using vasodilators?
Weight and edema.
What is the role of nursing education when a patient is prescribed a vasodilator?
To inform the patient about potential side effects and the importance of adherence.
Fill in the blank: The use of vasodilators may lead to __________ in heart rate.
an increase.
Which vasodilator is often used in combination with a diuretic?
Minoxidil.
True or False: Vasodilators are effective in treating renal hypertension.
True.
What is the effect of vasodilators on systemic vascular resistance?
It decreases systemic vascular resistance.
What should be assessed before starting a patient on vasodilators?
Baseline blood pressure and heart rate.
Name a contraindication for the use of vasodilators.
Severe aortic stenosis.
What is a common side effect of minoxidil?
Hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth).
Fill in the blank: Vasodilators can cause __________ as a side effect, especially when initiating therapy.
orthostatic hypotension.
What patient population requires cautious use of vasodilators?
Elderly patients.
Which laboratory test should be monitored in patients taking minoxidil?
Renal function tests.
What is the primary goal of using vasodilators in hypertensive patients?
To achieve and maintain target blood pressure.
True or False: Vasodilators can be used as monotherapy for hypertension.
False, they are often used in combination with other antihypertensives.
What is the importance of patient positioning when administering vasodilators?
To prevent falls due to hypotension.
