Patient Data
The healthcare provider (HCP) has given the client a prescription for captopril.
Choose the most likely options for the information missing from the statements by selecting from the lists of options provided.
Captopril is a(n)
The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"D"}
Captopril is an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor that works by vasodilation.
Choice A: Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitor
Reason:
Captopril is classified as an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. ACE inhibitors work by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. By inhibiting this conversion, ACE inhibitors reduce the levels of angiotensin II, leading to vasodilation, decreased blood pressure, and reduced workload on the heart. This mechanism is particularly beneficial in managing hypertension and heart failure. Additionally, ACE inhibitors like captopril help in reducing the progression of diabetic nephropathy by decreasing glomerular pressure.
Choice B: Aldosterone Agonist
Reason:
Aldosterone agonists are drugs that mimic the action of aldosterone, a hormone that increases sodium and water reabsorption in the kidneys, leading to increased blood volume and blood pressure. This is the opposite of what captopril does. Captopril, as an ACE inhibitor, actually reduces aldosterone secretion, leading to decreased sodium and water retention, which helps lower blood pressure. Therefore, captopril cannot be classified as an aldosterone agonist.
Choice C: Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker
Reason:
Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) work by blocking the action of angiotensin II at its receptor sites, preventing vasoconstriction and aldosterone secretion. While ARBs and ACE inhibitors both target the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), they do so at different points. Captopril is an ACE inhibitor, not an ARB. ARBs include drugs like losartan and valsartan, which are used when patients cannot tolerate ACE inhibitors due to side effects like coug.
Choice D: Lowering the Heart Rate
Reason:
Lowering the heart rate is not the primary mechanism of action for captopril. This effect is more commonly associated with beta-blockers, which reduce heart rate and myocardial contractility to lower blood pressure and reduce cardiac workload. Captopril, on the other hand, primarily works through vasodilation by inhibiting the formation of angiotensin II. While it may have some indirect effects on heart rate by reducing blood pressure, this is not its main mechanism.
Choice E: Reducing Inflammation
Reason:
Reducing inflammation is not a primary action of captopril. Anti-inflammatory effects are typically associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids. While there is some evidence that ACE inhibitors may have minor anti-inflammatory effects due to their impact on the RAAS, this is not their primary function. Captopril is mainly used for its vasodilatory effects to manage hypertension and heart failure.
Choice F: Diuresis
Reason:
Diuresis, or increased urine production, is not the primary mechanism of action for captopril. Diuretics, such as furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide, are specifically used to promote diuresis by acting on different parts of the renal tubules to increase the excretion of sodium and water. While captopril can lead to mild diuresis by reducing aldosterone levels, this is not its main therapeutic action.
Choice G: Vasodilation
Reason:
Vasodilation is the correct mechanism of action for captopril. By inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, captopril reduces vasoconstriction and promotes vasodilation. This leads to a decrease in blood pressure and an overall reduction in the workload on the heart. Vasodilation is a key therapeutic effect of ACE inhibitors, making them effective in treating conditions like hypertension and heart failure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Consulting with a pharmacist about scheduling the dose one hour after the client eats is not appropriate for risedronate. This medication should be taken on an empty stomach to ensure proper absorption. Taking it with food or beverages other than water can significantly reduce its effectiveness.
Choice B reason:
Withholding the medication until the client’s breakfast tray is available is incorrect. Risedronate should be taken first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before any food, drink (other than water), or other medications.
Choice C reason:
Assigning unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to bring the client a glass of low-fat milk is not appropriate. Milk and other beverages can interfere with the absorption of risedronate, making it less effective.
Choice D reason:
Instructing the client that it is necessary to take nothing but water with the medication is the correct action. Risedronate should be taken with a full glass of plain water to ensure it reaches the stomach quickly and is absorbed properly. This helps maximize the medication’s effectiveness and reduces the risk of esophageal irritation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
While monitoring temperature is important for overall health assessment, it is not the most critical vital sign to check first in the context of opioid-induced lethargy. Opioids primarily affect the respiratory system, and respiratory depression is a significant risk. Therefore, temperature is not the priority in this scenario.
Choice B Reason:
Respiratory rate is the most critical vital sign to check first. Opioids can cause respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening. A decreased respiratory rate is a key indicator of opioid overdose or severe side effects. Monitoring the respiratory rate allows the nurse to assess the severity of the respiratory depression and take immediate action if necessary.
Choice C Reason:
Pulse rate is also an important vital sign, but it is secondary to respiratory rate in this context. While opioids can affect heart rate, the immediate concern with opioid-induced lethargy is respiratory depression. Therefore, checking the respiratory rate takes precedence over the pulse rate.
Choice D Reason:
Blood pressure is another vital sign that should be monitored, but it is not the first priority in this situation. Opioids can cause hypotension, but the primary and most immediate concern is respiratory depression. Therefore, the respiratory rate should be assessed first to ensure the client’s airway and breathing are adequate.
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