A nurse monitors a client for potential side effects of which medication class often used for hypertension?

ACE inhibitors are a class of medications frequently prescribed to manage hypertension, and monitoring for potential side effects is essential due to the specific adverse effects associated with this medication group.

Ace inhibitors work by inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, leading to vasodilation and decreased blood pressure. However, they can produce a range of side effects. Common adverse effects include a persistent dry cough, which occurs in some patients as a result of elevated bradykinin levels. There is also the risk of angioedema, a rare but serious reaction that can cause swelling of deeper layers of the skin, especially around the eyes and lips, and in severe cases, can lead to life-threatening airway obstruction. Additionally, ACE inhibitors can lead to elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia) and impact kidney function, necessitating regular monitoring of renal function and electrolyte levels.

While diuretics, beta blockers, and calcium channel blockers also have their own sets of potential side effects that must be monitored, ACE inhibitors are particularly recognized for the specific and notable side effects mentioned above. This makes it critical for nurses to closely observe clients on these medications for any signs of these adverse effects.