A client with heart failure has a new order for captopril 12.5 mg PO. After administering the first dose and teaching the client about captopril, which statement by the client indicates that teaching has been effective?
A)"I will call for help when I need to get up to use the bathroom."
B)"I will be sure to take the medication after eating something."
C)"I will need to include more high-potassium foods in my diet."
D)"I will expect to feel more short of breath for the next few days."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Captopril can cause hypotension, especially after the initial dose, so it is important that the client not get up out of bed without assistance until the nurse has had a chance to evaluate the effect of the first dose. The ACE inhibitors are potassium sparing, and the nurse should not teach the client to increase sources of dietary potassium. Increased shortness of breath is expected with initiation of ?-blocker therapy for heart failure, not for ACE inhibitor therapy. ACE inhibitors are best absorbed when taken an hour before eating.

A Client with Heart Failure Has a New Order for Captopril