Research Paper on:
Pharmacological Properties of the Drug Prinivil

Unformatted Sample Text from the Research Paper:
The drug Prinivil (generically known as Lisinopril) is used in the treatment of high blood pressure and heart failure. An ACE inhibitor, the drug is one  of the most commonly used drugs in coronary care. It acts by blocking a particular enzyme which acts in the tightening of blood vessels (University of Michigan, 2002).  By blocking this action blood vessels are allowed to relax and blood pressure is consequently decreased (University of Michigan, 2002). While the drug is effective in its application, there  are a number of concerns with which the health care practitioner should be aware when administering this drug and when monitoring its long-term use in patients.  An estimated fifty million Americans are treated for hypertension on an annual basis (Woods, 2001). Unfortunately, even more go untreated and only half of those  that are treated have the condition under control (Woods, 2001). Prinivil is successfully used to treat a significant percentage of those individuals as well as in other cardiovascular applications.  From a nursing standpoint assessment should include blood pressure, pulse, q4h, note rate, rhythm, and quality (Bartersite.com, 2002). Also important in the assessment phase is the electrolytic balance  which exist for potassium, sodium, and chloride (Bartersite.com, 2002). The apical/pedal pulse should be evaluated before the administration of Prinivil and baselines in liver and renal function are imperative  (Bartersite.com, 2002). Other important assessment observations include peripheral edema in the feet, qd in the legs, skin turgor, dryness of the mucous membranes and symptoms of congestive heart failure,  edema, dyspnea, and wet rales are critical (Bartersite.com, 2002). The planning phase should take into consideration all of the factors discovered in the initial assessment. Prinivil should be