The nurse is caring for a 70-year-old patient who has recently begun taking amlodipine (Norvasc) 5 mg/day to control hypertension
The nurse notes mild edema of the patient's ankles, a blood pressure of 130/70 mm Hg, and a heart rate of 80 beats per minute. The patient reports flushing and dizziness. The nurse will notify the provider and
a. ask to decrease the dose to 2.5 mg/day.
b. discuss twice daily dosing.
c. request an order for a diuretic.
d. suggest adding propranolol to the regimen.
ANS: A
This patient is experiencing side effects of the medication. Elderly patients often require lower doses, so the nurse should ask about a dose reduction. Older adults generally require 2.5 to 5.0 mg/day. Twice daily dosing is not recommended. Unless edema persists, a diuretic is not indicated.
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