Medications for hypertension management

Medications for hypertension management ( 8 Questions)

A nurse is screening a male client for hypertension. The nurse should identify that which of the following actions by the client increase his risk for hypertension? (Select all that apply.)



Correct Answer: C

Captopril is a medication used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and kidney problems.   It belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, which work by relaxing blood vessels and lowering blood pressure.   One of the common side effects of captopril is a dry cough, which may be caused by the accumulation of a substance called bradykinin in the lungs.   A persistent cough may indicate that the medication is not well tolerated and may need to be changed. Therefore, the client should report any signs of a cough to their health care provider.

Choice A is wrong because captopril should be taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after meals. Food may decrease the absorption and effectiveness of captopril.

Choice B is wrong because captopril should not be stopped abruptly, even if the blood pressure becomes normal.   Stopping captopril suddenly may cause a rebound increase in blood pressure and worsen the condition. Captopril should be taken regularly as prescribed, and only discontinued under the guidance of a health care provider.

Choice D is wrong because captopril should not be taken only when the client has symptoms of high blood pressure.   High blood pressure is often asymptomatic, meaning that it does not cause any noticeable signs or symptoms.   However, high blood pressure can damage the heart, kidneys, brain, and other organs over time. Therefore, captopril should be taken daily as a preventive measure to lower the risk of complications from high blood pressure.

Normal blood pressure range is less than 120/80 mm Hg (millimeters of mercury).

Elevated blood pressure range is 120-129/less than 80 mm Hg.

Stage 1 high blood pressure range is 130-139/80-89 mm Hg.

Stage 2 high blood pressure range is 140 or higher/90 or higher mm Hg. Hypertensive crisis range is 180 or higher/120 or higher mm Hg.




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