Question

A nurse is caring for a client who has a new prescription for aliskiren to treat hypertension. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following findings as an adverse effect of the drug?

1) Hyperkalemia
2) Throat swelling
3) Constipation
4) Cough
5) Joint pain

Answer 1

A nurse prescribing aliskiren to treat hypertension should monitor for hyperkalemia, throat swelling, and less commonly cough, constipation, and joint pain as these are potential adverse effects of the drug.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should monitor the client who has a new prescription for aliskiren for several possible adverse effects. Aliskiren is a direct renin inhibitor used to treat hypertension. Among the possible side effects, the nurse should particularly watch for hyperkalemia, as aliskiren can increase potassium levels in the blood. This condition is characterized by a high level of potassium and can lead to symptoms such as malaise and potentially fatal cardiac arrhythmias. Additionally, while it is not as common as with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, drugs like aliskiren can sometimes cause throat swelling due to angioedema. Cough is more often associated with ACE inhibitors and is less likely with aliskiren, but it is still a possible side effect to monitor for. The nurse should also be aware of other side effects like constipation and joint pain as potential adverse reactions when caring for the client.