Question

. A nurse is caring for a patient with hypertension and diabetes. The patient's prescriber recently ordered an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the nurse's teaching about this drug?

a. "ACE inhibitors only dilate veins, so I may have more edema in my ankles."
b. "ACE inhibitors prevent the nervous system from causing increased blood pressure."
c. "The drug can also cause shortness of breath because of bronchoconstriction."
d. "This drug will help lower my blood pressure and will benefit my kidneys."

Answer 1

The correct statement that indicates a patient's understanding of ACE inhibitors is that they will help lower blood pressure and are beneficial for the kidneys. ACE inhibitors work by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, reducing vasoconstriction and protecting renal function.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement by the patient that indicates understanding of the nurse's teaching about an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor is: "This drug will help lower my blood pressure and will benefit my kidneys." ACE inhibitors are medications that help manage hypertension by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor which raises blood pressure. This blockade results in the vasodilation of blood vessels, leading to lower blood pressure. Additionally, these drugs have a protective effect on the kidneys by reducing the constriction of blood vessels within the kidney, thereby enhancing renal blood flow and function.