Cardiac Vascular Nursing Certification Practice Exam

The choice of ACE inhibitors as the correct answer is based on their well-established role in managing hypertension. ACE inhibitors, or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, function by blocking the action of the enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. By inhibiting this conversion, ACE inhibitors promote vasodilation, leading to a decrease in systemic vascular resistance. This reduction in resistance contributes to lowered blood pressure. ACE inhibitors also have additional benefits in patients with certain cardiovascular conditions, such as heart failure, where they can enhance cardiac output and reduce fluid retention. They are commonly prescribed for managing hypertension and have been shown to improve outcomes in patients with various cardiovascular diseases. In contrast, NSAIDs can potentially increase blood pressure by causing fluid retention and decreasing the effectiveness of some antihypertensive medications. Oral contraceptives may also lead to increased blood pressure in some women, particularly those predisposed to hypertension. Cold remedies, depending on their composition, often contain sympathomimetic agents, which can raise blood pressure through vasoconstriction.