Question

The physician prescribes captopril (Capoten) \(25 \mathrm{mg}\) po tid for the client with hypertension. Which of the following adverse reactions can occur with administration of Capoten? A. Tinnitus B. Persistent cough C. Muscle weakness D. Diarrhea

Short answer

Answer: B. Persistent cough

Step-by-step solution

Understand what Capoten is and its mechanism of action

Capoten is the brand name for captopril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It works by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which helps to relax blood vessels and decrease blood pressure. This is prescribed to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).

Identify the common adverse reactions associated with Capoten

To identify the correct answer for the given multiple-choice question, we need to know the common adverse reactions associated with Capoten. These reactions include: Persistent cough, hypotension (low blood pressure), taste disturbances, rash, and dizziness.

Match the given options with the known adverse reactions of Capoten

Now, we can compare the given options with the common adverse reactions of Capoten we listed in Step 2. A. Tinnitus - Not a common adverse reaction B. Persistent cough - Common adverse reaction C. Muscle weakness - Not a common adverse reaction D. Diarrhea - Not a common adverse reaction Since the persistent cough is the only common adverse reaction listed among the options, the correct answer is: B. Persistent cough.

Key concepts

Pharmacology for Nurses

Pharmacology is the study of how drugs interact with the body. For nurses, understanding pharmacology is crucial because they administer medications and monitor patients for effects.

Nurses must grasp the mechanisms of action, side effects, and interactions of medications. This ensures they can safely and effectively assist in patient care.

• Mechanism of Action: This is how a drug produces its effect in the body. For instance, captopril, known as Capoten, is an ACE inhibitor. It lowers blood pressure by blocking a chemical that tightens blood vessels.
• Side Effects: These are the unintended effects of a medication. Nurses need to be aware of both common and severe side effects so they can educate and monitor patients appropriately.
• Drug Interactions: Nurses need to understand how different medications can affect each other. This includes knowing which drugs might increase or decrease each other's effectiveness.

Clear understanding aids nurses in safeguarding patient health by preventing medication errors.

Adverse Drug Reactions

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are unexpected and harmful effects resulting from taking a medication at normal doses. Recognizing ADRs is vital for nurses as they can be serious and affect patient outcomes.

ADRs can manifest in various ways, and understanding them can help nurses respond effectively.

• Identifying ADRs: Symptoms like rashes, coughs, or dizziness can indicate an ADR. Nurses should know which symptoms are liniked to particular drugs.
• Common ADRs for Capoten: The persistent cough is a well-known ADR. Other ADRs include hypotension and weird taste sensations.
• Patient Education: Informing patients about potential ADRs can empower them to report issues early.

Monitoring for ADRs encourages prompt action and adjustments in treatment to ensure safety.

Antihypertensive Medication Education

Antihypertensive medications lower blood pressure and prevent conditions like heart attacks or strokes. Educating patients about these drugs is critical for health management.

Here's what nurses need to communicate:

• Medication Purpose: Explain that antihypertensives reduce blood pressure to lower the risk of heart issues.
• Importance of Adherence: Stress the need to take medication as prescribed, even when feeling fine, to manage blood pressure consistently.
• Possible Side Effects: Discuss side effects like dizziness or coughs, and encourage patients to report persistent or severe symptoms.

Educating patients helps them become partners in their health care, ensuring medication regimes are effective and safe.