Patient was educated on contraindications for using Sodium Nitroprusside as follows:
- Sodium Nitroprusside is contraindicated in individuals with abnormally high heart rates. So, if your heart rate is being abnormally high (consistently more than 100), with the use of this medication, report this to your physician immediately.
- Sodium Nitroprusside is metabolized in the RBCs and lead to the production of cyanide ion, which can be extremely toxic. Cyanide levels should be carefully watched for in patients taking Sodium Nitroprusside. Observe compliance with any labs ordered.
- Sodium Nitroprusside is contraindicated in individuals with abnormally low blood pressures. Use of this medication in hypotensive individuals can result in extremely low blood pressure with reduced flow to vital organs, resulting in compromised function of these organs. So, if your blood pressures are being consistently low, with the use of these medications, report this to your physician.
- Sodium Nitroprusside is excreted in the urine. If kidney function is deficient, the excretion of Sodium Nitroprusside can suffer. This can lead to increased blood levels of the medication and metabolites for longer period, resulting in toxicity and severe side effects. So, Sodium Nitroprusside should be used with caution in individuals with compromised renal function.
