What are the key nursing considerations for beta blocker administration?

Before giving a beta blocker, assess heart rate and blood pressure. Hold the medication and notify the provider if the heart rate is below 60 beats per minute or systolic blood pressure is below 90 millimeters of mercury. Teach patients to rise slowly to prevent orthostatic hypotension and to monitor their pulse daily. Never discontinue beta blockers abruptly because sudden withdrawal can cause rebound tachycardia, hypertensive crisis, or myocardial ischemia. Taper the dose gradually over one to two weeks. ---