Concepts and Cases in Nursing Ethics Test Bank Related

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A client with primary hypertension is prescribed terazosin (Hytrin) to treat this condition. What is the mechanism of action of this drug?

  • A. Prevents conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II
  • B. Prevents beta-receptor stimulation in the heart
  • C. Inhibits the flow of calcium ions across the cell membrane of vascular tissue and cardiac cells
  • D. Blocks alpha-receptors in the vascular smooth muscle
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Terazosin is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blocker. By blocking alpha-1 receptors in the vascular smooth muscle, terazosin causes dilation of both arteries and veins, leading to reduced peripheral vascular resistance and decreased blood pressure. This dilation effect is achieved by preventing the binding of norepinephrine to alpha-1 receptors, thereby inhibiting vasoconstriction. Terazosin is commonly used in the treatment of hypertension to help lower blood pressure by reducing the workload on the heart and improving blood flow to organs and tissues.