The nurse obtains the following information from a patient newly diagnosed with prehypertension. Which finding is most important to address with the patient?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The recommendations for preventing hypertension include exercising aerobically for 30 minutes most days of the week. A weight that is 5 pounds over the ideal body weight is not a risk factor for hypertension. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension(DASH) diet is high in fiber, but increasing fiber alone will not prevent hypertension from developing. The patient's alcohol intake is within guidelines and will not increase the hypertension risk.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: If there is volume depletion secondary to natriuresis caused by the elevated BP, then volume replacement with normal saline can prevent large, sudden drops in BP when antihypertensive medications are administered. Sodium administration, cessation of antihypertensive therapy, and administration of vasoconstrictors are not normally indicated.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Histamine causes vasodilation of arterioles by acting on H1 receptors on vascular smooth muscle.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Aging causes decreased elastance and an increase in resting arterial volume.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Cardiac output is influenced by heart rate, preload, and afterload collectively.