A nurse should observe a client who is taking captopril (Capoten) for adverse effects, which include

• A. Dehydration
• B. Hyperglycemia
• C. Persistent cough
• D. Peripheral edema

Answer: (C)

The key concept is that ACE inhibitors can cause a persistent dry cough due to buildup of bradykinin. Captopril inhibits the enzyme that not only converts angiotensin I to II but also degrades bradykinin. When bradykinin accumulates in the airways, it can trigger a nonproductive cough. This effect is classic for ACE inhibitors and often leads clinicians to switch to a different class if it becomes troublesome.

Dehydration isn’t a typical ACE inhibitor adverse effect, though low blood pressure can occur. Hyperglycemia isn’t expected with this drug, and peripheral edema is not a common or direct adverse effect of ACE inhibitors.