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    Ati Rn Adult Medical Surgical 2023 Proctored Exam

    A nurse is assessing a client who is taking lisinopril. Which of the following findings should the nurse document in the client's medical record as an adverse effect?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Lisinopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor commonly used to treat hypertension and heart failure. It works by inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, leading to vasodilation and reduced blood pressure. While effective, ACE inhibitors are associated with characteristic adverse effects related to increased bradykinin levels. Nurses must monitor for both therapeutic effects and potential complications during therapy. A. Frequent, painless urination is not a known adverse effect of lisinopril. Although blood pressure reduction may improve renal perfusion in some clients, lisinopril does not directly cause diuresis or urinary frequency. This finding is unrelated to ACE inhibitor therapy. B. A potassium level of 3.5 mEq/L is at the lower limit of normal and does not represent an adverse effect of lisinopril. In fact, ACE inhibitors more commonly cause hyperkalemia due to decreased aldosterone secretion. Therefore, this finding is not consistent with expected medication effects. C. A blood pressure of 108/62 mm Hg may reflect the intended therapeutic effect of lisinopril, which is to lower blood pressure. While hypotension can occur as an adverse effect, this value alone is not necessarily abnormal unless accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness or syncope. D. A frequent, nonproductive cough is a well-known adverse effect of lisinopril caused by increased bradykinin levels in the respiratory tract. This persistent dry cough is a common reason for discontinuation of ACE inhibitors. It should be documented as an adverse effect and reported if it becomes bothersome or persistent.

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