Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Sodium Nitroprusside as follows:
- 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.
- Metabolism of Sodium Nitroprusside can 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.
- Take a blood pressure reading always before you take the pill. Maintain a log of every day blood pressure reading. If the blood pressure is too low, you can defer taking the medication for that dose. Notify your doctor, if more of such occurrences are happening, so that, your medication dose could be revised.
