Certified Medication Aide Practice

What action should be taken before administering hypertensive medications?

1. Administer the medication regardless of the blood pressure reading

2. Check blood pressure after giving the medication

3. Always check blood pressure before giving

4. Check with a coworker after giving the medication

The correct answer is: Always check blood pressure before giving

Before administering hypertensive medications, it is crucial to always check the patient's blood pressure. This is because giving hypertensive medications without knowing the current blood pressure can potentially cause harm to the patient. By checking the blood pressure before giving the medication, the healthcare provider can ensure that the medication is appropriate for the patient's current condition and prevent any potential adverse effects. It is important to remember that patient safety is the top priority when administering any medication, especially those that can significantly impact blood pressure.