GradEd a+
What's the job of Beta Blockers? ✔✔ to block actions of catecholamines and decrease workload
of heart and oxygen demands (decrease heart rate, decrease force of contraction, decrease rate
of A-V conduction)
What might an African American be prescribed for hypertension? ✔✔ a Beta Blocker along with
a diuretic or a calcium channel blocker
TRUE or FALSE: Atenolol is not a selective Beta 1- Adrenergic Blockers. ✔✔ FALSE
It selectively blocks beta 1- adrenergic receptor sites and suppresses the RAA system
What does Atenolol do? ✔✔ Decreases HTN and reduces angina
Why should a person not take Atenolol? ✔✔ if they have a heart block or if they are pregnant
caution: DM, renal dysfunction
How would NSAIDs affect Atenolols purpose? ✔✔ they decrease the effects of Atenolol
Why should a person with DM not take Atenolol? ✔✔ it may increase the risk of hypoglycemia if
patient is taking insulin or sulfonylureas
What are some side effects of Atenolol? ✔✔ Depression, cool extremities, and erectile
dysfunction
, An adverse reaction of Atenolol? ✔✔ Dyspnea
What nursing interventions are important for a patient taking Atenolol? ✔✔ -Assist the with
ambulation as orthostatic hypotension could occur.
-Teach them how to take their pulse
-Advise patient to not stop taking this drug abruptly (wean off 1-2 weeks)
-Warn male clients of erectile or ejaculation dysfunction (usually dose related)
Whats the common suffix for Beta Blockers? ✔✔ -olol
What are common side effects of Beta Blockers? ✔✔ -Bradycardia
-Lethargy
-GI disturbance
-Low BP
-DEPRESSION
What are the actions of Calcium Channel Blockers? ✔✔ To relax coronary artery spasms
Reduce cardiac workload and oxygen demands
What is the mechanism of action of Diltiazem (Cardizem)? ✔✔ it inhibits the transport of
calcium ions to the myocardial cells (lessening the workload of the heart)
~relaxes coronary and peripheral blood vessels, bringing more O2 to the myocardium &
reducing cardiac workload