Pharmacology and the Nursing Process by Linda Lane Lilley: Practice Exam

What is a critical initial step before administrating antihypertensive drugs?

1. Confirming patient's insurance coverage

2. Obtaining a thorough health history and physical assessment

3. Scheduling a follow-up appointment

4. Starting with the highest dose

The correct answer is: Obtaining a thorough health history and physical assessment

Before administrating antihypertensive drugs, obtaining a thorough health history and physical assessment is a critical initial step. This helps the healthcare provider to assess the patient's medical history, identify any potential contraindications, and determine the most appropriate dosage and type of antihypertensive medication. Option A is incorrect because insurance coverage is not relevant to the initial step of administering antihypertensive drugs. While it is important to have insurance coverage to help with the cost of medications, it is not a critical step in properly administering the medication. Option C is also incorrect because scheduling a follow-up appointment, although important for monitoring the patient's progress and adjusting medication as needed, is not the initial step in administering antihypertensive drugs. Option D is incorrect because starting with the highest dose can be dangerous and potentially harmful to the patient. Starting with a lower dose