PN Adult Medical Surgical Practice Exam

Which adverse effect should the nurse monitor for in a client taking enalapril?

1. Bradycardia

2. Tremors

3. Cough

4. Hyperglycemia

The correct answer is: Cough

Enalapril, an ACE inhibitor, is commonly prescribed for conditions such as hypertension and heart failure due to its effectiveness in lowering blood pressure and reducing cardiac workload. One of the well-known adverse effects associated with ACE inhibitors, including enalapril, is a persistent dry cough. This occurs as a result of increased bradykinin levels, which accumulate when the action of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is inhibited. The cough is typically non-productive and can be bothersome enough to lead to discontinuation of the medication in some patients. Monitoring for this side effect is important, as if a patient experiences a significant cough, the healthcare provider may need to consider alternative antihypertensive therapies that do not have this adverse effect, such as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). Therefore, being vigilant about the occurrence of a cough in clients taking enalapril is an essential aspect of patient care to ensure their safety and comfort while managing their medical condition.