Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) Practice Exam

What should be monitored in patients taking ACE inhibitors?

1. Blood sugar levels

2. Renal function

3. Thyroid function

4. Liver enzymes

The correct answer is: Renal function

Monitoring renal function in patients taking ACE inhibitors is crucial because these medications can affect kidney performance. ACE inhibitors, which are often prescribed for conditions like hypertension and heart failure, work by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme, leading to vasodilation and reduced blood pressure. However, they can also cause a decrease in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), particularly in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or conditions like heart failure where renal perfusion might already be compromised. Routine assessment of renal function, typically by measuring serum creatinine and electrolytes, ensures that any potential adverse effects on the kidneys are identified and managed promptly. Additionally, monitoring renal function can help in dose adjustments and assesses the need for ongoing therapy based on the patient’s response, thus enhancing patient safety and treatment efficacy. Other parameters, such as blood sugar levels, thyroid function, and liver enzymes, are not directly impacted by ACE inhibitors in the same manner, making renal function the most relevant monitoring focus for these medications.