CCRP Pharmacology Flashcards

Which medication side effect should prompt a CCRP to modify or stop an exercise session in a cardiac patient?

Answer: Severe hypotension from antihypertensives causing dizziness

Severe hypotension causing dizziness is a contraindication to continuing exercise as it risks falls and cardiovascular compromise.

Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are often prescribed instead of ACE inhibitors for which reason?

Answer: They do not cause the persistent dry cough associated with ACE inhibitors

ARBs block angiotensin II receptors but do not increase bradykinin levels, avoiding the dry cough side effect of ACE inhibitors.

A cardiac rehab patient reports muscle pain and weakness after starting a new statin. What serious condition should be ruled out?

Answer: Rhabdomyolysis

Statins can rarely cause rhabdomyolysis, a breakdown of muscle tissue that releases myoglobin and can lead to renal failure.

In patients with heart failure taking digoxin, which electrolyte disturbance increases the risk of digoxin toxicity?

Answer: Hypokalemia

Hypokalemia increases binding of digoxin to myocardial cells, raising the risk of digoxin toxicity and arrhythmias.

Which medication class is most appropriate for relieving symptomatic peripheral edema in a cardiac rehab patient with heart failure?

Answer: Diuretics

Diuretics promote fluid excretion through the kidneys, reducing the peripheral edema associated with heart failure.

CCRP professionals should know that spironolactone is classified as which type of diuretic that is especially beneficial in heart failure?

Answer: Potassium-sparing diuretic

Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing aldosterone antagonist that reduces mortality in heart failure while preventing hypokalemia.