A client with heart failure is placed on a low sodium diet. Which statement by the client indicates that the nurse’s nutritional teaching plan has been effective?

A. Retinal Hemorrhage

Uncontrolled hypertension can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to retinal hemorrhages. This can result in vision problems and, in severe cases, vision loss.

B. Ventricular Hypertrophy

Uncontrolled hypertension causes the heart to pump against increased resistance, leading to the thickening and enlargement of the left ventricle. Ventricular hypertrophy is a response to the increased workload on the heart and is associated with an increased risk of heart failure.

C. Cerebrovascular Disease

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cerebrovascular diseases, including strokes. Elevated blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the brain, increasing the risk of stroke. Strokes can have serious consequences, affecting various neurological functions.

D. Venous Insufficiency

Venous insufficiency is not typically directly associated with uncontrolled hypertension. It is more commonly related to problems with the venous system, such as damaged valves in the veins, leading to poor blood flow back to the heart. While hypertension can affect arteries, venous insufficiency is a distinct condition.

E. Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs)

Uncontrolled hypertension increases the risk of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), which are brief episodes of neurological dysfunction caused by temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain. TIAs are often considered warning signs of an increased risk of stroke.

A. Maintaining a diet high in dairy to increase protein necessary to prevent organ damage

Explanation: This statement is not accurate. While a balanced diet is important, there is no specific recommendation to maintain a diet high in dairy to prevent organ damage related to hypertension.

B. Use of strategies to prevent falls stemming from postural hypotension

Explanation: This is a correct and important consideration. Beta-blockers can cause postural hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing), and strategies to prevent falls, such as rising slowly from a sitting or lying position, are crucial.

C. Limiting exercise to avoid injury that can be caused by increased intracranial pressure

Explanation: This statement is not accurate. Exercise is generally beneficial for individuals with hypertension, and beta-blockers do not cause increased intracranial pressure.

D. Increasing fluids to avoid extracellular volume depletion from the diuretic effects of the beta-blocker

Explanation: This statement is not accurate. Beta-blockers are not typically associated with diuretic effects. Diuretics are a different class of medications commonly used for hypertension.