Pharmacology: Cardiovascular Medications Flashcards

A patient on metoprolol should be taught to monitor for which sign before each dose?

Answer: Heart rate below 60 bpm

Beta-blockers slow the heart, so bradycardia must be checked before dosing.

Why are nonselective beta-blockers used cautiously in patients with asthma?

Answer: They can cause bronchoconstriction

Beta-2 blockade can trigger bronchoconstriction in asthmatic patients.

A diabetic patient on a beta-blocker should be warned that the drug may mask which warning signs?

Answer: Hypoglycemia (tachycardia and tremor)

Beta-blockers blunt the tachycardia and tremor that warn of hypoglycemia.

Abrupt discontinuation of a beta-blocker can cause which dangerous rebound effect?

Answer: Rebound tachycardia and hypertension

Stopping beta-blockers abruptly can cause rebound hypertension and angina.

Which beta-blocker is considered cardioselective and preferred for patients with respiratory disease?

Answer: Metoprolol

Metoprolol is cardioselective (beta-1), making it safer for respiratory patients.

The suffix '-olol' in a drug name identifies it as which class?

Answer: Beta-blocker

Drugs ending in '-olol' are beta-blockers.

A patient taking a beta-blocker reports fatigue and cold extremities. The nurse explains these are due to what?

Answer: Reduced cardiac output and peripheral vasoconstriction

Beta-blockade reduces cardiac output and can cause cool extremities and fatigue.