Question

The nurse is transcribing a new prescription for spironolactone (Aldactone) for a client who receives an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. Which action should the nurse implement?

A) Administer both medications as prescribed.
B) Withhold the spironolactone and notify the healthcare provider.
C) Discontinue the ACE inhibitor.
D) Increase the dosage of the ACE inhibitor.

Answer 1

The nurse should withhold the spironolactone and notify the healthcare provider when transcribing a prescription for a client receiving an ACE inhibitor to avoid the risk of hyperkalemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should withhold the spironolactone (Aldactone) and notify the healthcare provider when transcribing a new prescription for a client who receives an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. ACE inhibitors and spironolactone have the potential to cause hyperkalemia (high potassium levels), and taking them together can increase the risk of this adverse effect.