Author Question: A nurse is obtaining a medication history on a newly admitted patient, who reports taking minoxidil ... (Read 110 times)

EAugust · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A nurse is obtaining a medication history on a newly admitted patient, who reports taking minoxidil for hypertension. Admission vital signs reveal a heart rate of 78 beats per minute and a blood pressure of 120/80 mm Hg.

What is an important part of the initial assessment for this patient?
a. Evaluating ankle edema
b. Monitoring for nausea and vomiting
c. Noting the presence of hypertrichosis
d. Obtaining a blood glucose

Question 2

A patient is admitted with severe hypertensive crisis. The nurse will anticipate administering which medication?

a. Captopril PO
b. Hydralazine (Apresoline) 25 mg PO
c. Minoxidil 20 mg PO
d. Sodium nitroprusside (Nitropress) IV

annierak · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Fluid retention is a common and serious adverse effect of minoxidil, because it can lead to cardiac decompensation. If present, a diuretic is indicated. Nausea and vomiting may occur with this drug but is not a serious side effect. Hypertrichosis occurs in about 80 of patients taking the drug, but its effects are cosmetic and not life threatening. It may be important to monitor the blood glucose level in some patients, because the drug can alter glucose tolerance, but this effect is not as serious as fluid retention.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Sodium nitroprusside is the drug of choice for hypertensive emergencies and is given intravenously. ACE inhibitors, such as captopril, are not used. Hydralazine may be used but should be given IV. Minoxidil is effective, but its severe side effects make it a second-line drug.