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

What is a potential risk of using OTC decongestants?

1. Decreased appetite

2. Increased bowel movements

3. Increased blood pressure and heart rate

4. Severe headaches

The correct answer is: Increased blood pressure and heart rate

Using over-the-counter (OTC) decongestants poses a potential risk of increased blood pressure and heart rate. Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, work by constricting blood vessels to reduce swelling in nasal passages, which can lead to elevated blood pressure. This vasoconstrictive effect can be particularly concerning for individuals with pre-existing hypertension or cardiovascular conditions, as it may exacerbate these issues. Increased heart rate may also occur as a direct result of the body's response to the medication, potentially leading to palpations or feelings of anxiety. This is critical information for patients, especially those self-treating with OTC medications, as they may not be aware of the cardiovascular implications associated with these products. The other choices are generally less serious and not commonly associated with the primary action of decongestants. For instance, decreased appetite and increased bowel movements are not typical side effects of these medications, and while severe headaches could theoretically occur, they are not a common direct risk linked specifically to the use of decongestants.