A patient with hypertension is taking a potent antihypertensive without results. The patient is concerned when the health care provider orders a new drug. The nurse explains, Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Standard Text: Select all that apply

Question

1. "The drug you took is very potent, and a higher dose is needed."
2. "The new drug has greater efficacy, so it will help reduce your blood pressure."
3. "The prescriber must have made an error in the orders."
4. "Efficacy in treating your hypertension is more important than potency."
5. "You are correct. I think the prescriber meant to order both drugs."

Answer 1

2,4
Rationale 1: A higher dose of a potent drug may cause more serious adverse effects without greater efficacy.
Rationale 2: Efficacy is more important than potency in providing blood pressure control.
Rationale 3: This is not an appropriate response by the nurse.
Rationale 4: Efficacy is more important than potency in pharmacologic treatment.
Rationale 5: This is not an appropriate response, and the nurse cannot assume the order was supposed to be for two drugs.
Global Rationale: Efficacy is more important than potency in providing blood pressure control. Efficacy is more important than potency in pharmacologic treatment. A higher dose of a potent drug may cause more serious adverse effects without greater efficacy. Statements regarding the prescriber are not appropriate.