Question

A patient has been started on an angiotensin II receptor blocker, Irbesartan (Avapro), for hypertension while in the hospital. What discharge teaching should the nurse include?

Select one:
a. This drug commonly causes a dry cough. Call your physician if this occurs.
b. Sit on the edge of the bed for several minutes before getting out of bed in the morning.
c. Keep a journal of your blood pressures, if your blood pressure drops below 120 mmHg diastolic then stop taking the drug.
d. If you forget a dose, you can double up your dose the next day to catch up.

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct the patient to sit on the edge of the bed for several minutes before standing to prevent orthostatic hypotension, a possible side effect of angiotensin II receptor blockers like Irbesartan (Avapro).

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient is being discharged on Irbesartan (Avapro), an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), commonly used for the treatment of hypertension, it is important to provide them with appropriate discharge teaching. The most accurate discharge instruction from the given options would be:

b. Sit on the edge of the bed for several minutes before getting out of bed in the morning.

This advice is important because ARBs can sometimes cause orthostatic hypotension, a form of low blood pressure that happens when you stand up from sitting or lying down. Sitting on the edge of the bed allows the body to adjust and can help prevent dizziness or fainting. The other options provided are incorrect for the following reasons: (a) ARBs are less likely than ACE inhibitors to cause a dry cough; (c) patients should not stop taking their medication without consulting their physician, even if there is a significant drop in blood pressure; and (d) patients should not double up doses if they miss one, as this could lead to overdose.