A female patient with essential hypertension is being treated with hydralazine (Apresoline) 25 mg twice daily
The nurse assesses the patient and notes a heart rate of 96 beats per minute and a blood pressure of 110/72 mm Hg. The nurse will request an order to:
a. administer a beta blocker.
b. administer a drug that dilates veins.
c. reduce the dose of hydralazine.
d. give the patient a diuretic.
ANS: A
This patient is showing signs of reflex tachycardia, so a beta blocker is indicated to slow the heart rate. Patients with heart failure who take hydralazine often require the addition of isosorbide dinitrate, which also dilates veins. There is no indication for reducing the dose of hydralazine. A diuretic can be given with hydralazine if sodium and water retention is present.
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