Case Study 1

Ms. Hernandez is a 45-year-old female patient who has been diagnosed with heart failure. She has been prescribed spironolactone by her health care provider to help manage her symptoms. Ms. Hernandez has a history of kidney disease and is also taking other medications for her health conditions.

1. What is spironolactone?
2. What is the purpose of prescribing spironolactone to Ms. Hernandez?
3. What are the potential side effects of spironolactone?
4. What are the potential drug interactions with spironolactone?
5. What laboratory tests are required to monitor the effects of spironolactone?
6. What dietary considerations should Ms. Hernandez be aware of while taking spironolactone?

Case Study 2

Mr. Johnson is a 67-year-old male patient who has been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. He has been prescribed warfarin by his health care provider to help prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke. Mr. Johnson has no history of bleeding disorders or other significant medical conditions.

1. What is warfarin?
2. What is the purpose of prescribing warfarin to Mr. Johnson?
3. How does warfarin work?
4. What are the potential risks of taking warfarin?
5. What is the optimal therapeutic range for Warfarin?
6. What laboratory tests are required to monitor the effects of warfarin?
7. What are the potential drug interactions with warfarin?
8. What dietary considerations should Mr. Johnson be aware of while taking warfarin?
9. What should Mr. Johnson do if he misses a dose of warfarin?
10. How often should Mr. Johnson see his health care provider while taking warfarin?

Note: Answers to the Case Studies can be found in the “Answer Key” sections at the end of the book.