A client is taking an ACE inhibitor (lisinopril) for hypertension. Which side effect should the nurse teach the client to report?

ACE INHIBITOR SIDE EFFECTS (drugs ending in '-pril': lisinopril, enalapril, ramipril):

Dry cough: Persistent, non-productive cough occurs in 5-20% of patients due to bradykinin accumulation; often requires switching to an ARB (angiotensin receptor blocker, '-sartan' drugs) which doesn't cause cough.

Angioedema: Rare but life-threatening — swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat; can obstruct the airway; MEDICAL EMERGENCY requiring immediate discontinuation and treatment.

Hyperkalemia: ACE inhibitors raise potassium — monitor levels, caution with potassium supplements/salt substitutes.

Hypotension: Especially first-dose.

First-dose: monitor for orthostatic hypotension.

Renal: Monitor kidney function (can worsen in renal artery stenosis).

Teratogenic: Contraindicated in pregnancy.

Patient education: Report persistent cough, any facial/throat swelling immediately, dizziness; rise slowly; avoid salt substitutes (potassium); LPN role: teach side effects, monitor BP and potassium, report cough and angioedema.