NCLEX Pharmacology: Cardiovascular Medications 3

Question 1

A patient taking lisinopril develops a persistent dry cough. What is the likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Accumulation of bradykinin from ACE inhibition

Answer

ACE inhibitors increase bradykinin, causing a dry cough.

Question 2

Which serious adverse effect of ACE inhibitors requires immediate discontinuation and emergency care?

Accepted Answer

Angioedema

Answer

Angioedema is a life-threatening swelling that requires stopping the drug immediately.

Question 3

The nurse should monitor which lab value in a patient on an ACE inhibitor due to risk of hyperkalemia?

Accepted Answer

Potassium

Answer

ACE inhibitors can cause potassium retention, so potassium must be monitored.

Question 4

Why are ACE inhibitors contraindicated in pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

They cause fetal injury and death

Answer

ACE inhibitors are teratogenic and can cause fetal harm or death.

Question 5

A patient who cannot tolerate an ACE inhibitor cough may be switched to which drug ending in '-sartan'?

Accepted Answer

Losartan (an ARB)

Answer

ARBs like losartan provide similar effects without the bradykinin cough.

NCLEX Practice Test