BP Basics
Q: What blood pressure reading indicates Stage 2 hypertension?
A: ≥140/90 mm Hg.
Q: Name a first-line thiazide diuretic.
A: Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) or chlorthalidone.
Q: ACE inhibitors end in what suffix?
A: “-pril”
Q: Beta blockers end in what suffix?
A: “-lol”
Q: Name a calcium channel blocker.
A: Amlodipine, nifedipine, diltiazem, verapamil.
Q: This diet is recommended for all patients with high blood pressure.
A: The DASH diet.
Q: What electrolyte imbalance is common with thiazides?
A: Hypokalemia.
Q: ARBs end in what suffix?
A: “-sartan”
Q: What vital sign must be checked before giving a beta blocker?
A: Heart rate.
Q: What is a common side effect of CCBs?
A: Peripheral edema.
Q: What type of hypertension has no identifiable cause?
A: Primary (essential) hypertension.
Q: What time of day should thiazides be taken?
A: In the morning.
Q: A common side effect of ACE inhibitors, not seen with ARBs.
A: Dry cough.
Q: Hold a beta blocker if the HR is below what number?
A: <60 bpm.
Q: What juice should patients avoid when taking CCBs?
A: Grapefruit juice.
Q: Name two major risk factors for hypertension.
A: Examples: smoking, obesity, DM, dyslipidemia, age, family history.
Q: Name one metabolic side effect of thiazides.
A: ↑ glucose, ↑ uric acid, hyponatremia.
Q: The MOST serious adverse effect of ACE inhibitors.
A: Angioedema.
Q: Which chronic condition should use beta blockers cautiously?
A: Asthma (can cause bronchospasm).
Q: What is a serious cardiac side effect of verapamil or diltiazem?
A: Heart block.
Q: What is the primary goal of hypertension treatment?
A: Reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (MI, stroke).
Q: What two assessments are PRIORITY when administering thiazides?
A: Electrolytes (K+, Na+) and blood pressure.
Q: Why should patients on ACE/ARBs avoid salt substitutes?
A: They contain potassium → risk of hyperkalemia.
Q: Why must beta blockers NOT be stopped abruptly?
A: It can cause rebound hypertension or MI.
Q: CCBs are particularly effective in which patient population?
A: African-American patients.