Diltiazem — NCLEX Cheat Sheet
Non-DHP CCB → slows AV node
👤 By the CinnaRN Clinical Content Team
🕐 Updated 2026-07-11
🏷️ Pharmacological Therapies
🔖 Free to read, print, and share
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Use this quick-reference guide to spot, treat, and prevent Diltiazem on the NCLEX. Keep it handy during review and on exam day!
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- HTN, angina, A-fib/SVT rate control
- Blocks Ca → ↓ HR, ↓ contractility
- Bradycardia, hypotension, edema
- Dizziness, constipation, flushing
- HR < 60 → hold dose
- SBP < 90, new SOB/swelling
- NEVER w/ IV beta-blocker → asystole
- Heart block, HFrEF caution
- No grapefruit juice → ↑ levels
- Check pulse before each dose
- Rise slowly, ↑ fiber/fluids
✨Quick Tip
Slows AV nodal conduction and heart rate, making it effective for rate control in atrial fibrillation.
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