ACE Inhibitors
What is the mechanism of action for ACE inhibitors?
Inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme, which converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II and allows the blood vessels to remain dilated, thus keeping blood pressure managed.
What is the mechanism of action for digoxin?
Increases heart contractility and leads to increased cardiac output.
What is the mechanism of action for loop diuretics?
Loop diuretics inhibit the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in 3 parts of the kidneys (distal tubules, proximal tubules, and the loop of Henle).
What are the therapeutic uses of ACE inhibitors?
Hypertension, Heart Failure, Myocardial Infarction
What is the therapeutic range for digoxin?
0.5-2.0
Hypertension, Heart Failure, Renal Disease, Peripheral/Pulmonary Edema.
Name three side effects of ACE inhibitors.
Angioedema, dry cough, elevated potassium, orthostatic hypotension, dizziness
Name the nursing considerations for digoxin.
Take apical pulse for 1 full minute
Hold the medication if the pulse is less then 60.
Check potassium levels before giving.
give IV dose over 5 minutes.
What are the must-know side effects?
HYPOKALEMIA, hypotension, dehydration, hyperglycemia, hyponatremia, photosensitivity
FALSE
T/F: ACE inhibitors increase digoxin levels.
TRUE
T/F: Fast administration of furosemide can cause ototoxicity.
True
What should you educate your client regarding ACE inhibitors?
Avoid potassium-containing foods, NO SALT substitutes
The medication needs to be tapered
Educate side effects
Name the early side effects of digoxin toxicity.
Loss of appetite (anorexia), nausea, and vomiting.
What are the normal K values?
3.5-5.0