Question

A provider has ordered captopril [Capoten] for a patient who has hypertension. The patient reports a history of swelling of the tongue and lips after taking enalapril [Vasotec] in the past. Which action by the nurse is correct?

a. Administer the captopril and monitor for adverse effects.
b. Hold the dose and notify the provider.
c. Request an order to administer fosinopril instead of captopril.
d. Reassure the patient that this is not a serious side effect.

Answer 1

The correct action by the nurse is to hold the dose of captopril and notify the provider due to the patient's previous adverse reaction to a similar medication.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct action by the nurse in this situation is to hold the dose of captopril and notify the provider. The patient's history of swelling of the tongue and lips after taking enalapril indicates a potential allergy or adverse reaction to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, which include captopril.

It is important to take the patient's history into consideration and avoid administering a medication that may cause a similar reaction. Holding the dose and notifying the provider allows for further evaluation and selection of an alternative medication that is safe for the patient.