Why are vasodilators like hydralazine and minoxidil commonly used in combination with a beta blocker or a diuretic?
Explanation
Potent vasodilators can trigger compensatory mechanisms in the body, such as an increase in heart rate (reflex tachycardia) and retention of sodium and water. Combining them with beta blockers (to control heart rate) and diuretics (to manage fluid retention) counteracts these side effects.
Other questions
According to the text, what is the primary goal of antihypertensive therapy?
What is the recommended blood pressure target level for patients undergoing antihypertensive therapy, as described in the General Action and Information section?
Which of the following drug classes should be avoided during pregnancy according to the 'Precautions' section?
What potential adverse event is associated with the abrupt discontinuation of centrally acting alpha-adrenergic agonists and beta blockers?
Which class of drugs, when taken with diuretics, can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity?
What is the recommended patient action if they are taking antihypertensives and the weather is hot?
Which of the following are listed in the 'Interactions' section as drugs that can negate the therapeutic effectiveness of antihypertensives?
What specific patient instruction is given regarding over-the-counter (OTC) medications?
What potential electrolyte imbalance may be caused by combining ACE inhibitors with potassium-sparing diuretics?
Which parenteral agents are mentioned as examples for managing hypertensive emergencies?
What patient teaching point is crucial regarding the duration of antihypertensive therapy?
What is a potential side effect of thiazide and loop diuretics mentioned in the 'Precautions' section?
What is a key nursing assessment for a patient taking diuretics as part of their antihypertensive regimen?
What is the only listed contraindication for the general class of antihypertensives?
What should the nurse advise the patient to do to minimize orthostatic hypotension?
What is a method suggested in the 'Assessment' section to help determine patient compliance with their medication regimen?
A patient taking an ACE inhibitor, an angiotensin II antagonist, or aliskiren should be instructed to notify their health care professional if what situation occurs?
What is the general effect of NSAIDs on antihypertensive therapy?
What is the expected outcome of antihypertensive therapy?
Which of the following is NOT listed as a class of antihypertensive drugs in the 'General Action and Information' section?
Why must a patient be compliant with taking their centrally acting alpha-adrenergic agonists?
What should a patient on antihypertensives be advised to report to their healthcare provider regarding their home blood pressure monitoring?
What is the reason given for why many antihypertensives are available as combination products?
Which nursing diagnosis is listed as a potential diagnosis for a patient on antihypertensives?
Besides medication, what additional intervention for hypertension is mentioned in the Patient/Family Teaching section?
What action should a patient be advised to take before undergoing treatment or surgery?
Which food or supplement, when taken with potassium-sparing diuretics, may lead to hyperkalemia?
What is the classification of antihypertensives based on, according to the text?
What is the general use of parenteral antihypertensive products as specified in the document?
The text states that the target diastolic blood pressure for antihypertensive therapy is less than what range?
Which of these is listed as a centrally-acting antihypertensive class?
What does the 'rebound phenomenon' associated with abrupt withdrawal of certain antihypertensives cause?
Vasodilators like hydralazine and minoxidil are known to cause which side effect?
Which drug class is NOT listed in the text as potentially negating the therapeutic effectiveness of antihypertensives?
What is the consequence of hypokalemia from diuretics, according to the 'Interactions' section?
What nursing assessment should be performed frequently during dosage adjustment of antihypertensives?
Which of the following is listed as a potential nursing diagnosis related to medication adherence?
The text states that medication controls, but does not do what?
What factor can enhance the hypotensive effects of antihypertensive medications?
Which class of antihypertensives is specifically associated with causing sodium and water retention?
What is the consequence of combining potassium supplements with ACE inhibitors?
What is a key lifestyle intervention that patients with hypertension should be encouraged to comply with?
What potential adverse outcome is associated with the abrupt withdrawal of antihypertensives?
A patient on diuretic therapy should have which of the following monitored?
Which group of antihypertensives is specifically noted to be useful for hypertensive emergencies when given parenterally?
What advice should be given to a patient about taking OTC cold remedies while on antihypertensive therapy?
According to the 'Precautions' section, which antihypertensive class may cause tachycardia if used alone?
How often should a patient be advised to check their BP at home?
What is the primary evaluation for the desired outcome of antihypertensive therapy?