American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Practice Test

What is a common nursing consideration when administering ARBs?

1. Monitor for dehydration

2. Watch for hyperkalemia

3. Assess for bradycardia

4. Evaluate for hypoglycemia

The correct answer is: Watch for hyperkalemia

When administering Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs), monitoring for hyperkalemia is crucial because these medications can interfere with the body's regulation of potassium levels. ARBs work by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that can cause blood vessels to constrict and increase blood pressure. One of the side effects associated with this class of drugs is the potential for elevated potassium levels due to reduced aldosterone secretion. Aldosterone is a hormone that promotes sodium retention and potassium excretion; when ARBs block angiotensin II, aldosterone levels decrease, which can lead to the retention of potassium. Thus, checking serum potassium levels before and during treatment helps prevent complications associated with hyperkalemia, such as cardiac dysrhythmias. This consideration is essential for ensuring patient safety while managing conditions like hypertension or heart failure with ARBs. The other options, while relevant to various aspects of patient care and medication management, are not as directly related to the specific effects and side effects of ARBs as monitoring for hyperkalemia is.