A patient who has recently begun taking captopril (Capoten) to treat hypertension calls a clinic to report a persistent cough. The nurse will perform which action?

A. Instruct the patient to go to an emergency department because this is a hypersensitivity reaction.: A persistent cough from captopril is not an immediate hypersensitivity reaction; it is a common, non-life-threatening side effect. Emergency care is not required unless there are signs of angioedema or respiratory distress. B. Schedule an appointment with the provider to discuss changing to an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB).: ACE inhibitors like captopril can cause a persistent dry cough due to increased bradykinin levels. Switching to an ARB avoids this side effect while maintaining antihypertensive efficacy. Discussing alternatives with the provider is the appropriate action. C. Tell the patient to stop taking the drug immediately since this is a serious side effect of this drug.: Abrupt discontinuation without provider guidance may lead to uncontrolled hypertension. While the cough is bothersome, it is not immediately dangerous, and medication changes should be managed through the prescriber. D. Reassure the patient that this side effect is nothing to worry about and will diminish over time.: The cough caused by captopril often persists as long as the drug is taken. Reassuring the patient without considering alternative therapy may prolong discomfort and reduce adherence to treatment.