Vasodilator Grading Rubric Includes both Classification and Medication name

  
Vasodilator Grading Rubric
Includes both Classification and Medication name that is easily visible
Includes at least one Image, cut and pasted
Includes a minimum of 3 side effects
Is accurate and easy to read
Drug Names: hydralazine (Apresoline), sodium nitroprusside (Nitropress)
Mechanism of Action:
· Causes vasodilation via direct relaxation of vascular smooth muscle resulting in
decreased blood pressure, decreased vascular resistance, and increased cardiac output
Indications for Use:
· Hypertension (*fastest acting antihypertensive agent)
Nursing Considerations / Priority Assessments:
· Monitor blood pressure (may have prn orders such as administer every 6 hours as needed
for systolic BP greater than 160 and/or diastolic BP greater than 100)
· Report signs of infection
· Given IV push (undiluted) over 1 minute
Adverse / Side Effects:
 
· Hypotension
· Palpitations, angina
· Headache
· Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
· Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Patient Teaching and Education:
· Do not stop taking abruptly
· Do not double up on medication doses
· Do not use while pregnant