NUR 210: Cardiovascular Pharmacology Master Guide | 2026 complete solutions

Cardiovascular Pharmacology Master Guide


ACE Inhibitors, ARBs, Beta Blockers, Loop Diuretics, Spironolactone,

Digoxin, and Nitrates


This is a high-yield RN/NCLEX-style pharmacology review focused on:


 Generic drug names


 Mechanism of action (MOA)


 Therapeutic response


 Must-know adverse effects


 Nursing monitoring


 Patient teaching


1. ACE InHIBITORS (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors)


Common Generic Drugs


 lisinopril


 enalapril


 captopril


 ramipril


 benazepril


MOA


ACE inhibitors block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II.


This causes:

,  vasodilation


 decreased blood pressure


 decreased aldosterone secretion


 decreased sodium and water retention


 reduced cardiac workload


Key NCLEX Phrase


“Prevents vasoconstriction and fluid retention.”


Therapeutic Response


Used for:


 hypertension


 heart failure


 diabetic nephropathy


 post-MI protection


 kidney protection in diabetes


Expected findings:


 lower BP


 decreased edema


 improved cardiac output


 decreased proteinuria

, Must-Know Adverse Effects


HIGH YIELD


 dry persistent cough


 hyperkalemia


 hypotension


 dizziness


 angioedema (EMERGENCY)


 acute kidney injury


Why cough occurs


ACE inhibitors increase bradykinin levels.


Monitoring


 BP


 potassium


 BUN/Creatinine


 renal function


 signs of angioedema


Patient Teaching


 Change positions slowly


 Avoid potassium supplements/salt substitutes