Cardiovascular Medications

Overview

Cardiovascular medications encompass a wide range of drugs used to manage blood pressure, heart rate, and cardiac rhythm. These include antihypertensives, antiarrhythmics, and medications for heart failure or angina. Nurses must carefully monitor vital signs and electrolytes to ensure these potent drugs are working effectively without causing dangerous hypotension or bradycardia.

Key nursing concepts

• ACE inhibitors lower blood pressure by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I.
• Beta blockers decrease heart rate and cardiac output.
• Calcium channel blockers relax smooth muscle to lower blood pressure and heart rate.
• Cardiac glycosides like digoxin increase the force of myocardial contraction.
• Nitrates dilate veins and arteries to reduce preload and afterload.
• Statins are used to lower cholesterol and prevent atherosclerosis.

Important nursing considerations

• Assess apical pulse for one full minute before administering digoxin.
• Monitor blood pressure before and after giving antihypertensive medications.
• Check potassium levels before giving ACE inhibitors or digoxin.
• Evaluate for peripheral edema and lung sounds in patients with heart failure.
• Monitor for signs of digoxin toxicity such as yellow-green halos or nausea.
• Observe for a dry, persistent cough in patients taking ACE inhibitors.

Patient teaching

• Change positions slowly to prevent dizziness and falls.
• Do not abruptly stop taking beta blockers as it can cause rebound hypertension.
• Learn how to take a radial pulse at home and report significant changes.
• Keep sublingual nitroglycerin in its original dark glass container.

Related practice questions

Real questions from the NursGuru bank, each with the answer and rationale.

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Cardiovascular Medications flashcards

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