Author Question: A patient with hypertension is prescribed the alpha-adrenergic blocker doxazosin (Cardura). What ... (Read 122 times)

fox · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A patient with hypertension is prescribed the alpha-adrenergic blocker doxazosin (Cardura). What should the nurse instruct the patient about this medication?

Select all that apply.
1. Take the medication at bedtime.
2. Change positions slowly and sit down if dizziness occurs.
3. Notify the primary healthcare provider if nasal congestion develops.
4. Restrict the intake of all alcoholic beverages and items containing caffeine.
5. Avoid engaging in hazardous activity for 12 to 24 hours after the first dose.

Question 2

A patient makes an appointment to see the primary healthcare provider because during a routine eye examination the ophthalmologist asked how long the patient had been treated for hypertension.

What did the ophthalmologist observe that caused the health problem of hypertension to be discussed?

Select all that apply.

1. nystagmus
2. papilledema
3. astigmatism
4. retinal exudates
5. retinal hemorrhages

T4T · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3, 5
Because of the risk of fainting after taking the first dose of this medication the medication should be taken at bedtime. This drug can cause dizziness. The patient should change positions slowly and sit down if dizziness occurs. The primary healthcare provider should be notified if nasal congestion occurs. Because of the risk of fainting, the patient should not drive or engage in hazardous activity for 12 to 24 hours after taking the first dose. There is no need to restrict the intake of alcoholic beverages and items containing caffeine while taking this medication.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 2, 4, 5
Manifestations of hypertension result from target organ damage, including the eyes. Eye changes include visual disturbances, narrowed arterioles in the retina along with hemorrhages, exudates, and papilledema or swelling of the optic nerve. Nystagmus and astigmatism are not caused by changes in the eye resulting from hypertension.