nursing assessment of hypertension

Nursing assessments for hypertension commonly encompass monitoring patients' blood pressure, evaluating their lifestyle, and recognizing potential complications. During these assessments, nurses focus on the blood pressure readings and inquire about lifestyle habits such as diet, exercise, and smoking to gain a comprehensive understanding of the patient's health.

In a detailed analysis, nurses prioritize the blood pressure readings. The normal range is a systolic blood pressure of less than 120 mmHg and a diastolic blood pressure of less than 80 mmHg. Persistent readings above these values may indicate hypertension. Nurses also inquire about symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and blurred vision, which could be signs of high blood pressure.

Beyond blood pressure readings, nurses evaluate lifestyle factors. High-salt diets, lack of physical activity, and smoking are all factors that can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Nurses offer tailored health education, suggesting a low-salt diet, regular exercise, and smoking cessation.

Ultimately, nurses advise patients on the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring and the adjustment of lifestyle and medication under a physician's guidance. Poorly controlled blood pressure can lead to severe complications like heart disease and stroke. Patients are urged to adhere to prescribed medication regimens and not to alter dosages or discontinue medication without medical supervision. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for managing hypertension.