The client with coronary artery disease asks the nurse, "Why do I get this chest pain?" Which would be the most appropriate response?

Choice A reason: The client had an allergic reaction to losartan, a drug that belongs to the class of angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). ¹ Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can cause swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, and face, as well as difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, and shock. ² The client needs immediate medical attention and treatment with oxygen, fluids, and epinephrine. ³

Choice B reason: The client did not have an expected side effect of the medication. Losartan is used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict and retain salt and water. ¹ Some common side effects of losartan include dizziness, headache, fatigue, cough, and nausea. ⁴ Anaphylaxis is not a common or expected side effect of losartan, but a rare and serious adverse reaction.

Choice C reason: The client should not have a prescription change to enalapril. Enalapril is another drug that lowers blood pressure and heart failure, but it belongs to the class of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. ⁵ ACE inhibitors and ARBs have similar mechanisms of action and effects, but they differ in how they block the angiotensin system. However, both classes of drugs can cause allergic reactions and anaphylaxis in some people, especially those who have a history of allergy to either drug. The client should avoid both ACE inhibitors and ARBs and use another type of blood pressure medication.

Choice D reason: The client should not avoid taking the medication with food. Food does not affect the absorption or effectiveness of losartan. ⁴ The client can take the medication with or without food, as directed by the provider. However, the client should avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they can interact with losartan and increase the risk of side effects.

Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Traveling to cities where the oxygen level is lower, such as high-altitude areas, can trigger a sickle cell crisis by reducing the amount of oxygen in the blood. People with sickle cell anemia should avoid such places or take precautions such as using supplemental oxygen¹².

Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Strenuous exercise does not prevent sickle cell crisis, but rather can cause it by increasing the body's oxygen demand and dehydration. People with sickle cell anemia should avoid overexertion and rest frequently during physical activity¹³.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Flying on commercial airlines is not prohibited for people with sickle cell anemia, as long as they stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine. However, some people may need to use supplemental oxygen during flights, especially if they have a history of acute chest syndrome or pulmonary hypertension¹⁴.

Choice D reason: This is correct. Drinking plenty of fluids when outside in hot weather is important for people with sickle cell anemia, as dehydration can cause the red blood cells to sickle and block blood vessels. Staying hydrated can help prevent or reduce the severity of sickle cell crises¹⁵.