What is a common side effect of bile acid sequestrants?

A. Increase your fiber and fluid intake to prevent constipation: Lisinopril is not associated with constipation as a common adverse effect. Teaching focused on bowel regulation is more appropriate for medications that reduce gastrointestinal motility, such as opioids, rather than ACE inhibitors.

B. Call 911 if you experience facial swelling or difficulty breathing: Facial swelling and difficulty breathing are hallmark signs of angioedema, a rare but life-threatening adverse effect of lisinopril. Immediate emergency care is required because airway obstruction can develop rapidly and become fatal without prompt intervention.

C. Eat foods high in potassium or take a potassium supplement: Lisinopril decreases aldosterone secretion, leading to potassium retention. Encouraging high-potassium intake or supplements increases the risk of hyperkalemia, which can result in dangerous cardiac dysrhythmias.

D. A dry cough is normal and the medication should be continued: A persistent dry cough is a known side effect of lisinopril, but it should be reported to the healthcare provider. The medication may need to be changed if the cough is bothersome or persistent, rather than automatically continued.

• Sitting: The sitting position promotes optimal lung expansion and helps the client achieve maximum inhalation of the medication. Proper posture ensures that the airways are open and reduces the risk of aspiration or ineffective drug delivery. Sitting upright also enhances coordination between actuation and inhalation.

• Shake the inhaler: Shaking the metered dose inhaler mixes the medication and propellant evenly, ensuring a consistent and accurate dose is delivered. Failing to shake the inhaler can result in uneven dosing, reducing the effectiveness of therapy and potentially worsening the client’s respiratory symptoms.