Common diagnosis for patients in your clinical experience.

Sample Solution

  Diagnosis: Hypertension Medication: Lisinopril Mechanism of action: Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor, which means that it blocks the action of an enzyme called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). ACE is responsible for converting angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which is a potent vasoconstrictor. By blocking the action of ACE, lisinopril helps to relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.

Full Answer Section

  Therapeutic action: Lisinopril is used to treat hypertension, heart failure, and diabetic nephropathy. It can also be used to prevent stroke and heart attack in people who are at high risk. Etiology of the disease process: Hypertension is a chronic condition that is caused by a number of factors, including genetics, diet, and lifestyle. It is characterized by high blood pressure, which can damage the heart, kidneys, and other organs. Other actions appropriate for improving the patient’s condition: In addition to taking medication, there are a number of other things that patients can do to improve their condition, such as:

• Losing weight
• Eating a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Managing stress

Therapeutic actions that I will be monitoring for: When a patient is taking lisinopril, I will be monitoring for the following therapeutic actions:

• A decrease in blood pressure
• An improvement in symptoms of heart failure
• A decrease in the risk of stroke and heart attack

Potential systemic adverse reactions to the medications: The potential systemic adverse reactions to lisinopril include:

• Cough
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Rash
• Angioedema (a rare but serious allergic reaction)

How will I monitor for those adverse effects? I will monitor for adverse effects by asking the patient about their symptoms and by checking their blood pressure regularly. How will they be treated? If the patient experiences any adverse effects, I will notify the healthcare provider. The healthcare provider may decide to adjust the dosage of the medication or to switch the patient to a different medication. Are there potential toxicities related to any medication your patient is taking? Yes, there are potential toxicities related to lisinopril. If the patient takes too much lisinopril, they may experience the following symptoms:

• Low blood pressure
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Seizures

What developmental concerns might the healthcare provider need to consider with your patient related to these medications? The healthcare provider will need to consider the patient's age and any other medications that they are taking when prescribing lisinopril. For example, lisinopril should not be given to pregnant women or to women who are breastfeeding.