SN instructed patient to rise slowly from sitting/supine position, as Atenolol may cause orthostatic hypotension and to avoid sudden discontinuation of this drug, as this may cause rebound hypertension. Patient verbalized understanding of instructions given.
Instructed patient about Atenolol and why it should be stored away from light, moisture and should be placed in a cool enviroment.
Instructed patient about how Atenolol blocks stimulation of receptors within vascular smooth muscle. It also decreases heart rate, decreases comsumption of oxygen by myocardium and it is used to treat hypertension, prophylaxis of angina pectoris, suspected or known myocardial infarction.
Instructed patient about why Atenolol should not be discontinued abruptly because serious effects may occur. Do not use OTC medications without consulting doctor; limit alcohol, salt, smoking as prescribed. Take Atenolol as prescribed, do not double or skip doses.
Instructed patient about how Atenolol may mask symptoms of hypoglycemia in diabetic patients.
Instructed to patient to comply with diet, exercises and weight control in order to get the most benefit from the Atenolol.
Instructed patient that when using Atenolol he/she should be aware of symptoms of CHF and report inmediately if they appear, for example: difficulty breathing, specially when lying down, night cough, swelling of extremities, dizziness, confusion, depression, fever.
Instructed patient about Atenolol. How it may be crushed, chewed or swallowed whole; preferably taken with food to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort.
Instructed in new medication Atenolol to manage hypertension. In addition, warned of possible S/E such as fatigue, lethargy, vertigo, drowsiness, dizziness, fever, bradycardia, hypotension, heart failure, intermittent claudication, nausea, diarrhea, thrombocytopenia, hyperkalemia, hypoglycemia, increased risk of developing type-two diabetes, dyspnea, bronchospasm, rash and leg pain. Instructed to take drug exactly as prescribed at the same time every day. Do not stop drug suddenly but do call prescriber if unpleasant adverse reactions occur. If pulse rate is below 60 beats/minute, stop taking drug and call prescriber. Women: notify prescriber if pregnancy occurs. Drug usage might be discontinued.