Week 2 Calcium Channel Blockers

Question 1

What are the four most common Calcium Channel Blockers?

Drive in the Pines

Answer 1

• Diltiazem
• Verapamil
• Nifedipine
• Amlodipine

Question 2

What is the MOA for Calcium Channel Blockers?

Answer 2

Inhibits the influx of extracellular calcium into the membranes of the heart and vascular smooth muscle cells of the heart and body.

Question 3

What are the effects of Calcium Channel Blockers?

Answer 3

• Dilation of coronary and systemic arteries with a resulting decrease in BP
• Decrease of myocardium contractility (decreased workload)
• Slows AV node conduction (Decreased HR)

Question 4

What Calcium Channel Blockers is most commly used to slow HR and AV node conduction in Afib?

Answer 4

Diltiazem

Question 5

What are the main indications for Calcium Channel Blockers?

Answer 5

HTN, angina, controlling rapid HR in SVT or Afib

Question 6

What are the most common side effects for Calcium Channel Blockers?

Answer 6

Peripheral Edema, Hypotension, Constipation

Question 7

What are the major nursing considerations for Calcium channel blockers?

Answer 7

• Change position slowly
• Measure I&O closely
• Monitor Liver and kidney function
• Obtain HR and BP before administering (No go for HR below 60 or SBP below 90)