Vasodilator Grading Rubric
Includes both Classification and Medication name that is easily visible Includes at least one Image, cut and pasted Includes a minimum of 3 side effects Is accurate and easy to read
Drug Names: hydralazine (Apresoline), sodium nitroprusside (Nitropress) Mechanism of Action: · Causes vasodilation via direct relaxation of vascular smooth muscle resulting in decreased blood pressure, decreased vascular resistance, and increased cardiac output Indications for Use: · Hypertension (*fastest acting antihypertensive agent) Nursing Considerations / Priority Assessments: · Monitor blood pressure (may have prn orders such as administer every 6 hours as needed for systolic BP greater than 160 and/or diastolic BP greater than 100) · Report signs of infection · Given IV push (undiluted) over 1 minute Adverse / Side Effects:  
· Hypotension · Palpitations, angina · Headache · Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea · Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) Patient Teaching and Education: · Do not stop taking abruptly · Do not double up on medication doses · Do not use while pregnant