A patient with hypertension is prescribed an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. Which adverse effect is most commonly associated with ACE inhibitors?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most commonly associated adverse effect with ACE inhibitors is a dry cough. This cough is non-productive and can be quite bothersome for patients, often leading to non-compliance with the medication. The cough is thought to be due to the accumulation of bradykinin and substance P, which are vasodilatory and bronchoconstrictive peptides that are normally degraded by ACE. When ACE is inhibited, these peptides accumulate and can lead to irritation of the respiratory tract, resulting in the dry cough. It's important for healthcare providers to be aware of this common side effect and consider alternative medications if the cough becomes problematic for the patient.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Grilled chicken breast is a suitable choice for a low-phosphorus diet because poultry is typically lower in phosphorus compared to dairy products (like cheese), nuts (like almonds), and whole grains (like wheat toast). This option indicates an understanding of the need to restrict phosphorus intake, which is important for individuals with chronic kidney disease to prevent complications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A patient with chronic kidney disease prescribed a low-protein diet should avoid high-protein foods like grilled salmon, lentil soup, and beef stew. Chicken Caesar salad, on the other hand, typically contains a smaller amount of protein compared to the other options. This choice indicates an understanding of the need to limit protein intake while still enjoying a balanced meal. However, it is important to note that the quantity and portion sizes of high-protein ingredients in the salad should also be moderate to comply with a low-protein diet.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Beta-blockers are medications commonly used in the management of heart failure. One of the therapeutic effects of beta-blockers is to decrease the heart rate. By blocking the action of adrenaline on the heart, beta-blockers help to slow down the heart rate, reduce the workload on the heart, and improve overall heart function. In patients with heart failure, a decreased heart rate is a favorable outcome as it can help improve cardiac output and reduce symptoms of heart failure such as fatigue and shortness of breath. Monitoring the heart rate is an important assessment parameter to evaluate the effectiveness of beta-blocker therapy in patients with heart failure. Therefore, a decreased heart rate would indicate a therapeutic effect of beta-blocker therapy in this patient.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Loop diuretics, such as furosemide, are potent diuretics commonly used to manage conditions like edema, heart failure, and hypertension. Loop diuretics work by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the loop of Henle in the kidney, leading to increased diuresis. However, this mechanism of action can also lead to increased excretion of other electrolytes, such as magnesium.