A patient who has been taking antihypertensive drugs for a few months complains of having a persistent dry cough. The nurse knows that this cough is an adverse effect of which class of antihypertensive drugs?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A persistent dry cough is a well-known adverse effect associated with the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. ACE inhibitors work by inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, thereby causing vasodilation and reducing blood pressure. However, they can also inhibit the breakdown of bradykinin, leading to the accumulation of bradykinin in the lungs. This accumulation can irritate the airways, resulting in a dry, persistent cough in some patients. It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of this side effect, as it can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and may require alternative antihypertensive medication.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Physostigmine, a cholinesterase inhibitor, lowers IOP in glaucoma by increasing aqueous outflow . It contracts the ciliary muscle, opening the trabecular meshwork. Secretion or synthesis reduction isn't its mechanism. Raising pressure (D, E) contradicts its use. This aids drainage in open-angle glaucoma.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL) is a diuretic that can cause electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypokalemia (low potassium levels). Digitalis (digoxin) is a medication commonly used to treat heart conditions, and its therapeutic effect is dependent on adequate potassium levels. If a patient taking hydrochlorothiazide becomes hypokalemic and then takes digitalis, it can lead to an increased risk of digitalis toxicity. This severe interaction highlights the importance of monitoring potassium levels and potential drug interactions when patients are taking hydrochlorothiazide. Potassium supplements would help counteract the potassium loss caused by hydrochlorothiazide and minimize the risk of interactions with digitalis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A persistent dry cough is a well-known adverse effect associated with the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. ACE inhibitors work by inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, thereby causing vasodilation and reducing blood pressure. However, they can also inhibit the breakdown of bradykinin, leading to the accumulation of bradykinin in the lungs. This accumulation can irritate the airways, resulting in a dry, persistent cough in some patients. It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of this side effect, as it can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and may require alternative antihypertensive medication.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Furosemide is a loop diuretic commonly used to treat conditions involving edema such as heart failure, liver disease, and kidney disorders. By promoting diuresis (increased urine production), furosemide helps the body eliminate excess fluid, leading to a decrease in edema or swelling. Therefore, a patient given furosemide for diuresis should experience a decrease in edema as the drug acts on the kidneys to increase urine output and eliminate extra fluids from the body.