Week 6
Mr. Tinsley is a 55-year-old lawyer who has been diagnosed with primary hypertension. The health care provider has informed the patient that lifestyle modifications must be made. He is prescribed captopril (Capoten) 25 mg PO b.i.d and hydrochlorothiazide.
The nurse is providing drug information to Mr. Tinsley when he asks: can you explain the therapeutic action of ACE inhibitors?
What adverse effects should the nurse monitor in this patient?
He returns to the clinic 1 month later for reevaluation. His blood pressure is 140/72 and he is complaining of an irritating cough. The health care provider discontinued the ACE inhibitor and started diltiazem (Cardizem).
Explain why only the ACE inhibitor was discontinued.
How does diltiazem treat hypertension?
Mr. Tinsley says that his BP is really not that high so why does he really need this medication. How should
you respond?
Answer
(a). Therapeutic action of ACE inhibitors are:- By diminishing the impacts of angiotensin II on the kidney, ACE inhibitors cause natriuresis and diuresis, which diminishes blood volume and cardiovascular output, consequently bringing down blood vessel pressure.
(b). Lifestyle modifications include:-
- Lose extra pounds and watch your waistline.
- Exercise regularly.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Reduce sodium in your diet.
- Limit the amount of alcohol you drink.
- Quit smoking.
- Cut back on caffeine.
- Reduce your stress.
(c). Adverse effects of ACE inhibitors are :-
- Cough
- Red, itchy skin or rash.
- Dizziness , light headedness or faintness upon rising.
- Salty or metallic taste or a decreased ability to taste.
- Swelling of the neck, face and tongue.
- High potassium levels.
- Kidney failure.
Please cite out of this book
Karch A. (2013). Focus on nursing pharmacology (6th ed.). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
