Question

The nurse is teaching a patient who has hypertension about long-term management of the disease and a beta blocker. The patient reports typically consuming 1 to 2 glasses of wine each evening with meals. How will the nurse respond?

Answer 1

The nurse will explain to the patient the potential interactions and increased side effects of consuming wine while taking beta blockers for hypertension.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse will explain to the patient that consuming alcohol, including wine, may interact with beta blockers and can potentially increase the drug's side effects. Alcohol can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and low blood pressure, which are symptoms that can already be caused by beta blockers. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption can also increase blood pressure, which may counteract the effects of the medication. The nurse will advise the patient to discuss their alcohol consumption with their healthcare provider and follow their recommendations. It may be necessary for the patient to reduce or avoid alcohol while taking beta blockers to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes and minimize potential risks. In summary, the nurse will inform the patient that consuming wine while taking beta blockers may not be advisable due to potential interactions and increased side effects.