# A client who started lisinopril 1 week ago reports swelling of the lips and tongue. Which instruction should the nurse give?

> source: MyMerci (mymerci.kr)  
> url: https://mymerci.kr/pages/nclex_q.php?qn_id=397143&lang=en  
> language: en  
> subject: Adverse Effects/Contraindications/Interactions  
> category: PPT

## Question

A client who started lisinopril 1 week ago reports swelling of the lips and tongue. Which instruction should the nurse give?

## Option

1. Take the next dose with food.
2. Use an over-the-counter mouth rinse.
3. Skip one dose and restart the medication tomorrow.
4. Seek emergency care immediately. **✔ Correct answer**

**Correct answer: 4**

## Explanation

Swelling of the lips and tongue while taking an ACE inhibitor suggests angioedema, which can threaten the airway. The client needs emergency evaluation. Taking the medication with food, mouth rinse, or restarting later does not address the urgent airway risk.

## In-depth explanation

Clinical Judgment
Use the client cues, timing, labs, and safety risks to select the response that best fits ACE inhibitor angioedema.

Memory Tip
Match the strongest cue cluster to the safest nursing judgment.

KR vs US
NCLEX items reward cue-based priority thinking rather than isolated recall.

## Clinical scenario

Clinical Practice Guide
For ACE inhibitor angioedema, compare the complete cue pattern with the client's current stability, ordered data, and expected nursing scope.

Caution
Do not choose an action from one isolated cue when the full scenario changes priority or safety.

## Key concepts

- **ACE Inhibitor** — A medication class used for hypertension, heart failure, and kidney protection in some clients.
- **Angioedema** — Deep swelling that may involve the lips, tongue, throat, or airway.
- **Airway Risk** — A condition that may impair ventilation and requires urgent attention.

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