What should be monitored when administering ACE inhibitors?

When administering ACE inhibitors, monitoring blood pressure is crucial because these medications are primarily used to lower blood pressure and manage conditions like hypertension and heart failure. ACE inhibitors work by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which leads to the relaxation of blood vessels and a decrease in blood pressure.

Since the primary function of these drugs is to manage cardiovascular parameters, tracking blood pressure helps ensure that the medication is having the desired effect and allows for timely intervention if hypotension occurs. Monitoring blood pressure regularly can also assist healthcare providers in adjusting dosages as needed to maintain optimal levels for patient safety.

While heart rate, respiratory rate, and body temperature may be important to monitor in other clinical contexts, they are not the primary indicators of the effectiveness or safety of ACE inhibitors. Therefore, blood pressure remains the focal point for monitoring in this context.