A nurse is administering aspirin to a client who has angina and is at risk for myocardial infarction. Which of the following statements by the nurse explains the rationale for this medication?

Drinking 36 oz beer daily and eating a diet high in sodium are actions that increase the risk for hypertension.

Here is why:

• Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure and also damage the liver, brain, and heart.The American Heart Association recommends limiting alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

• Eating a diet high in sodium can cause the body to retain fluid, which increases blood pressure.The American Heart Association recommends limiting sodium intake to no more than 2,300 mg per day, and ideally no more than 1,500 mg per day.

Choice A, B, and C are wrong because:

• Drinking 8 oz nonfat milk daily is not a risk factor for hypertension.In fact, dairy products may help lower blood pressure by providing calcium, potassium, and protein.

• Eating popcorn at the movie theater is not a risk factor for hypertension, unless the popcorn is heavily salted or buttered.Popcorn is a whole grain that can provide fiber and antioxidants.

• Walking 1 mile daily at 12 min/mile pace is not a risk factor for hypertension.On the contrary, physical activity can help lower blood pressure by strengthening the heart and blood vessels.

Normal blood pressure range is less than 120/80 mm Hg (millimeters of mercury).

Elevated blood pressure range is 120-129/less than 80 mm Hg.

Hypertension stage 1 range is 130-139/80-89 mm Hg.

Hypertension stage 2 range is 140 or higher/90 or higher mm Hg.Hypertensive crisis range is higher than 180/higher than 120 mm Hg.

Diuretics are drugs that increase urine output and reduce fluid volume in the body. They lower blood pressure by decreasing the amount of sodium and water in the blood vessels, which reduces the pressure on the walls of the arteries. Diuretics are often the first-line therapy for hypertension, especially for older adults and African Americans.

Choice A is wrong because reaching the goal blood pressure depends on many factors, such as the severity of hypertension, the response to medication, and the lifestyle changes of the client. It may take longer than 2 months to achieve optimal blood pressure control.

Choice C is wrong because limiting alcohol consumption to three drinks a day is not enough to prevent or treat hypertension. Alcohol can raise blood pressure by interfering with the effects of medication, stimulating the nervous system, and increasing fluid retention. The recommended limit for alcohol intake is no more than one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men.

Choice D is wrong because hypertension cannot be cured with medication. Hypertension is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management and monitoring. Medication can help lower blood pressure, but it does not address the underlying causes of hypertension, such as genetics, obesity, stress, or kidney disease. Lifestyle modifications, such as diet, exercise, weight loss, and smoking cessation, are also essential for preventing complications and improving quality of life.

Normal ranges for blood pressure are:

• Systolic: less than 120 mm Hg

• Diastolic: less than 80 mm Hg

Hypertension is defined as:

• Systolic: 130 mm Hg or higher

• Diastolic: 80 mm Hg or higher