Carlos Avaya is a 26-year-old single man who was diagnosed with primary HTN 4 months ago. Carlos has been taking losartan (Cozaar) 50 mg daily PO and has been faithful in taking the medication as prescribed. When Carlos was told that his blood pressure was still elevated during this clinic visit, he was obviously distressed and concerned. The health care team begins to investigate external factors that may be causing his blood pressure to remain elevated. Carlos has never smoked or used alcohol. He does not like to exercise but participates in a weekly game of soccer at the nearby community center. He denies being overly stressed with work or home life. Furthermore, he claims that he rarely salts his food. The nurse asks Carlos to describe a typical day. During the description the nurse notices a concerning pattern. Because Carlos lives alone, he frequently cooks for himself. He admits that he enjoys salty foods such as pretzels and popcorn. He denies having consumed either prior to the visit to the clinic. However, to Carlos, cooking a meal involves preparing canned processed foods and frozen dinners. He never reads food labels. Without recording a complete dietary history, the nurse is able to determine that Carlos’s intake of sodium-rich foods is quite extensive.
1. In your own words, how would you describe how losartan (Cozaar) works to reduce blood pressure?
2. Considering the adverse effects of losartan (Cozaar), when would you instruct Carlos to notify the prescriber?
3. In addition to teaching Carlos about his losartan (Cozaar), what additional health teaching should he receive?
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