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 [...]

Patient was educated on how to take Sodium Nitroprusside as follows: Take the medication at the same time every day, to avoid forgetting the medication. Maintain strict compliance with intake of the medication as ordered, with regards to dosage and frequency, to derive the benefit of the medication. Do not change the dose on Sodium Nitroprusside without consulting your doctor. Take a blood pressure reading always before you take the pill. Maintain a log of [...]

Patient was educated on Sodium Nitroprusside and its mechanism of action as follows: Sodium Nitroprusside is both an arterial and venous vasodilator. Dilation of arteries results in decreased resistance for the heart, pumping blood into the arterial system. So, more amount of blood can be pumped by the heart with reduced effort. Reduced resistance in the arteries will lead to reduced blood pressure. Dilation of veins results in increased capacitance, where by, the veins can [...]