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ATI Pharm Made Easy 4.0 Cardiovascular Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified
What is the main purpose of beta blockers in cardiovascular treatment?✔✔To reduce heart rate and blood pressure by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors.
Why should a nurse check apical pulse before administering digoxin?✔✔Because digoxin can cause bradycardia, and the drug should be withheld if the heart rate is too low.
What electrolyte imbalance increases the risk of digoxin toxicity?✔✔Low potassium levels (hypokalemia).
What is a serious adverse effect of ACE inhibitors that requires immediate medical attention?✔✔Angioedema, which involves swelling of the face, lips, or throat.
Why should patients avoid salt substitutes when taking ACE inhibitors? 1 / 3
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✔✔Because many salt substitutes contain potassium, which can increase the risk of hyperkalemia.
What is a common side effect of nitroglycerin?✔✔Headache, due to vasodilation of cerebral vessels.
Why should patients sit or lie down before taking sublingual nitroglycerin?✔✔To prevent dizziness or fainting from sudden blood pressure drop.
What is the primary action of calcium channel blockers in treating hypertension?✔✔To relax blood vessels and reduce cardiac workload by inhibiting calcium influx in muscle cells.
Why is it important to taper off beta blockers gradually?✔✔Sudden discontinuation can lead to rebound hypertension or angina.
What should a nurse monitor when a patient is on a loop diuretic like furosemide?✔✔Potassium levels and signs of dehydration. 2 / 3
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What is the mechanism of action for statins?✔✔They inhibit cholesterol synthesis in the liver to lower LDL levels.
What symptom should a patient report immediately while taking statins?✔✔Unexplained muscle pain or weakness, which may indicate myopathy.
Why are anticoagulants prescribed for patients with atrial fibrillation?✔✔To prevent blood clot formation and reduce the risk of stroke.
What lab value should be monitored closely when a patient is on warfarin?✔✔INR (International Normalized Ratio).
Why should grapefruit juice be avoided with certain calcium channel blockers?✔✔Because it can increase drug levels and risk of toxicity by interfering with metabolism.
What is the primary action of diuretics in heart failure treatment?✔✔To reduce fluid overload and decrease cardiac workload.
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