ACEIs
ACE inhibitors end with which suffix?
What is -pril?'
The common ending for ARBs.
What is “-sartan”?
The common ending for beta blockers.
What is “-lol”?
The three main types are verapamil, diltiazem, and this group ending in “-pine.”
What are dihydropyridines (e.g., amlodipine, nifedipine)?
Always check these two vital signs before administering most antihypertensives.
What are blood pressure and heart rate?
What is the main mechanism of ACE inhibitors?
Inhibit conversion of angiotensin I to II, decreasing vasoconstriction.
ARBs lower blood pressure by blocking this hormone.
What is angiotensin II?
Beta blockers lower blood pressure by slowing this vital sign.
What is heart rate?
This vital sign should be monitored closely due to possible hypotension.
Blood pressure
This position change technique helps prevent orthostatic hypotension.
What is changing position slowly?
The nurse should hold the dose if this electrolyte is elevated.
What is potassium?
Unlike ACE inhibitors, ARBs do not typically cause this side effect.
What is a dry cough?
The nurse should use caution when giving beta blockers to patients with this respiratory condition.
What is asthma or COPD?
The nurse should caution patients about this food that can interfere with drug metabolism.
What is grapefruit juice?
Beta blockers can mask symptoms of this metabolic emergency in diabetics.
What is hypoglycemia?
ACE inhibitors are contraindicated in this population.
What are pregnant women?
ARBs are primarily used for these two conditions.
What are hypertension and heart failure?
Sudden discontinuation can cause this cardiac event.
What is rebound hypertension or angina/MI?
Calcium channel blockers reduce contractility by blocking calcium entry into these cells.
What are cardiac and smooth muscle cells?
Nurses should teach clients to avoid these substances that can worsen hypertension.
What are NSAIDs, decongestants, and high sodium foods?
This rare but life-threatening reaction can occur.
What is angioedema?
Combining ARBs and ACE inhibitors increases risk for these two adverse effects.
What are hyperkalemia and renal impairment?
The selective beta blockers primarily affect this receptor site.
What are beta-1 receptors in the heart?
Verapamil may cause this adverse effect due to slowed peristalsis.
What is constipation?
This combination of medications can increase risk for renal dysfunction.
What are ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and potassium-sparing diuretics?