An elderly patient has hypertension, and the prescriber has ordered a combination of medications that have been shown to reduce mortality and morbidity in the elderly
Which combination of medications would the nurse anticipate being prescribed?
a. An angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and a loop diuretic
b. A beta blocker and a diuretic
c. An alpha1 blocker and an alpha/beta blocker
d. A centrally acting alpha2 blocker and a beta blocker
ANS: B
Although all antihypertensive drugs are effective in older adults, only beta blockers and diuretics have been shown in controlled trials to reduce morbidity and mortality.
Clinical trials have proven only that beta blockers and diuretics decrease morbidity and mortality with older adults. Beta blockers are cardioprotective since they decrease heart rate and contractility. Thiazide diuretics tend to be effective with older adults as aantihypertensive agent.
Alpha1 blockers and alpha/beta blockers can cause orthostatic hypotension.
Centrally acting alpha2 blockers can impair cognitive function.
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