Which information is most important for the nurse to include when teaching a patient newly diagnosed with hypertension?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Hypertension is usually asymptomatic until target organ damage has occurred. Lifestyle changes(e.g., physical activity, dietary changes) are used to help manage BP, but drugs are needed for most patients. Home BP monitoring should be taught to the patient and findings checked by the health care provider frequently when starting treatment for hypertension and then every 3 months when stable.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Blurred vision, spots in front of the eyes, and diminished visual acuity can mean retinal blood vessel damage indicative of damage elsewhere in the vascular system as a result of hypertension. Glaucoma and cranial nerve damage do not normally cause these symptoms. A hypertensive emergency would have a more rapid onset.

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.