Question

A 70-year-old client asks the nurse to explain her hypertension as she is to have her blood pressure checked each shift. An appropriate response by the nurse as to why older clients often experience hypertension is because of:

1. Myocardial muscle damage
2. Reduction in physical activity
3. Ingestion of foods high in sodium
4. Accumulation of plaque on arterial walls

Answer 1

Hypertension in older clients can be caused by a reduction in physical activity, accumulation of plaque on arterial walls, and the ingestion of foods high in sodium.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. In older clients, there are several factors that can contribute to the development of hypertension. One of these factors is the reduction in physical activity that often occurs with aging. Older individuals may become less active, leading to weight gain and an increase in blood pressure.

Another factor is the accumulation of plaque on arterial walls. Atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of fatty plaques inside the arteries, is a common condition that develops over time. The arterial walls become thickened and stiffened, causing an increase in blood pressure.

Lastly, the ingestion of foods high in sodium can also contribute to hypertension in older clients. Eating a diet high in sodium can lead to fluid retention and an increase in blood volume, resulting in higher blood pressure.