NCLEX Review & Nursing School

Hypertension

– Hypertension is a sustained elevateion of the blood pressure and is defined defined in adult as a systolic BP of 140 or more, or a diastolic BP of 90 or more.  Hypertension is a major risk factor for coronary artery , cerebral, renal and peripheral disease from the damaging effects of the blood vessels.

Treatments:

• Dietary Changes: Low sodium diet and limit the intake of alcohol.
• Regular exercise and reduction of weight.
• Drugs: ACE Inhibitors: Catopril (Capoten), Ealapril (Vasotec)
• Antihypertensives: Hydralazine, Prazosin (Minipress)
• Diuretics: furosemide (lasix), Spironolactone (Aldatone)