University of San Agustin

General Luna St., 5000 Iloilo City, Philippines

www.usa.edu.ph

COLLEGE OF HEALTH AND ALLIED MEDICAL PROFESSIONS - DEPARTMENT OF NURSING

Name: Red Angela O. Dinson Course &Section: BSN 2-B

NCM 106 PHARMACOLOGY

MODULE 4: DRUGS AFFECTING THE CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM

Module 4 Activity No. 3 Antihypertensives

Instructions: Read and analyze the scenario. Write your answers on the box provided
below.

Case Scenario:

GG, a 72-year-old African-American patient, has heart failure and diabetes. Her
vital signs are blood pressure 176/94, pulse 92, and respirations 30. Her medications
include hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg/day, atenolol 50 mg/ day, and digoxin 0.25
mg/day.

Questions:

1. Why was hydrochlorothiazide prescribed for GG? Explain the effects of

hydrochlorothiazide on blood pressure?

The three medications that was prescribed to GG, a 72 years old African-American
patient were Hydrochlorothiazide, atenolol, and digoxin. First, Hydrochlorothiazide
belongs to the diuretic/"water pill" class of medicines. It works by increasing your pee
production. This aids your body's elimination of excess salt and water. To treat high
blood pressure, atenolol is used alone or in combination with other drugs
(hypertension). Digoxin is most typically used to treat arrhythmias (abnormal cardiac
rhythms), such as atrial fibrillation, as part of a therapy strategy to reduce the heart rate.
The goal is to lessen the pressure on the heart since this may wear out the heart muscle
and lead to heart failure over time. Also, Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)
inhibitors are not always as effective in the American African Population.

2. List your Nursing Responsibilities and their rationale for GG while taking her prescribed
medications.

Drug Side Effects Adverse Toxic Effects Indications

Effects

hydrochlorothiazide Headache, Potassium Hypovolemia Wear protective

upset depletion toxicity clothes, sunglasses,
stomach and and sunscreen to
and hypokalemia minimize
dizziness unnecessary or
extended exposure

Email: cn@usa.edu.ph | Tel. No.: 0999-997-1485 | Fax No.: (033) 337-4403

 University of San Agustin
General Luna St., 5000 Iloilo City, Philippines
www.usa.edu.ph

COLLEGE OF HEALTH AND ALLIED MEDICAL PROFESSIONS - DEPARTMENT OF NURSING

to sunlight.
Hydrochlorothiazide
may make your skin
more susceptible to
sunlight and raise
your chances of
developing some
forms of skin cancer.
During your
hydrochlorothiazide
therapy, your
doctor will examine
your skin for skin
cancer. If you
discover any new
skin changes or
growths, contact
your doctor.

When you rise up

too rapidly from a
laying position,
hydrochlorothiazide
might produce
dizziness,
lightheadedness,
and fainting. When
you initially start
taking
hydrochlorothiazide,
this is more
prevalent. To
prevent this issue,
carefully get out of
bed, resting your
feet on the floor for
a few minutes
before getting up.
These negative
effects may be
exacerbated by
alcohol.

atenolol Sleepy, Purple- Heart failure Take this

tired, colored spots medication by

Email: cn@usa.edu.ph | Tel. No.: 0999-997-1485 | Fax No.: (033) 337-4403

 University of San Agustin
General Luna St., 5000 Iloilo City, Philippines
www.usa.edu.ph

COLLEGE OF HEALTH AND ALLIED MEDICAL PROFESSIONS - DEPARTMENT OF NURSING

drowsiness on the skin, mouth with or
and without food as
hallucinations directed by your
doctor, usually 1 to
2 times daily.

Apple juice and

orange juice may
prevent your body
from fully absorbing
atenolol. It is best to
avoid drinking
apple/orange juice
within 4 hours of
taking atenolol,
unless your doctor
or pharmacist tells
you otherwise.

The dosage is based

on your medical
condition and
response to
treatment.

digoxin Skin rashes, fast heart Anaphylaxis Teach the patient

Loss of rate or the risk and benefits
appetite palpitations, of taking these
shortness of medications
breath because patient
GG is 72 years old
where he should be
given a lower doses
since higher doses
may cause serious
side effects.

Email: cn@usa.edu.ph | Tel. No.: 0999-997-1485 | Fax No.: (033) 337-4403