A new graduate nurse preparing to administer medications knows that which of the following is required for a drug to move through the body?

Choice A reason: ACE inhibitors cause dry cough by inhibiting bradykinin breakdown, which accumulates and irritates the airways. ARBs block angiotensin II receptors without affecting bradykinin, eliminating this side effect. This makes ARBs a suitable alternative for patients experiencing cough, confirming this as the correct choice.

Choice B reason: Hyperkalemia occurs with both ACE inhibitors and ARBs due to reduced aldosterone production, which decreases potassium excretion. Both drug classes affect the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system similarly, so switching to an ARB does not eliminate this risk, making this choice incorrect for the question.

Choice C reason: Hypotension is a shared side effect of ACE inhibitors and ARBs, as both reduce blood pressure by inhibiting the renin-angiotensin system. ARBs block angiotensin II receptors, causing vasodilation similar to ACE inhibitors, so this side effect persists, making this choice incorrect.

Choice D reason: Angioedema, though rare, can occur with both ACE inhibitors and ARBs. While less common with ARBs, it’s not eliminated, as it may result from mechanisms beyond bradykinin accumulation. Switching to an ARB doesn’t guarantee avoidance of angioedema, making this choice incorrect.

Choice A reason: Beta blockers decrease renin release, reducing angiotensin II and aldosterone, which lowers blood pressure. This statement is accurate, reflecting correct understanding, so it does not indicate a need for further teaching.

Choice B reason: Beta blockers do not primarily decrease peripheral vascular resistance; they reduce heart rate and contractility. Peripheral resistance is more affected by alpha blockers or vasodilators, so this incorrect statement indicates a need for further teaching.

Choice C reason: Beta blockers reduce heart rate and myocardial contractility, decreasing cardiac output and blood pressure. This statement is correct, showing proper understanding, so it does not require additional teaching.

Choice D reason: While beta blockers do not directly block angiotensin II, they reduce its production by decreasing renin. The statement is imprecise but not entirely wrong, making it less indicative of a teaching need than choice B.