Question

The nurse is caring for several patients. Which patient condition warrants teaching about treatment for hypertension?

-Diastolic pressure of 70 mm Hg
-Systolic pressure consistently above 140 mm Hg
-Diastolic blood pressure of 80 mm Hg after exercise
-Blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg after walking up two flights of stairs

Answer 1

The patient condition that warrants teaching about treatment for hypertension is the one with a systolic pressure consistently above 140 mm Hg. This measurement indicates a risk of chronic hypertension which can lead to serious cardiovascular problems.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse is assessing patients for potential hypertension, they should look for specific measurements that indicate whether a patient's blood pressure warrants attention or potential treatment for the condition. According to the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association, hypertension is defined as a chronic and persistent blood pressure measurement of 130/80 mm Hg or above. Therefore, among the scenarios given, a patient with a systolic pressure consistently above 140 mm Hg would warrant teaching and possible treatment for hypertension. This is because chronically elevated systolic pressure increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular health problems. Additionally, while a blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg after physical activity may be expected to rise temporarily, chronic readings at or above this level also suggest hypertension.