A patient from a long-term care facility is admitted to the hospital with a sacral pressure injury. The base of the wound involves subcutaneous tissue. How should the nurse classify this pressure injury?

Choice A reason: Hypertension, often called the "silent killer," is usually asymptomatic until significant target organ damage has occurred. This means that many people with hypertension do not experience symptoms until their blood pressure has been high for a long time, leading to damage in organs such as the heart, kidneys, brain, and eyes. Therefore, it's crucial for patients to understand the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring and management even in the absence of symptoms.

Choice B reason: While annual BP checks are useful for monitoring treatment effectiveness, more frequent monitoring may be necessary for newly diagnosed patients or those with poorly controlled hypertension. This information is important but not the most critical point compared to understanding the asymptomatic nature of hypertension.

Choice C reason: Increasing physical activity can help control blood pressure for many individuals, but it is not universally effective for everyone. While important, this information is part of a broader lifestyle modification plan rather than the single most critical point to emphasize.

Choice D reason: Dietary changes can play a significant role in controlling blood pressure, but not all individuals can control their BP through diet alone. Emphasizing this may give a false sense of control without highlighting the importance of medication and other interventions when needed.

Choice A reason: Placing the patient in restraints for safety is not typically necessary unless the patient is agitated or a danger to themselves or others. This action is not directly addressing the acute condition of a stroke.

Choice B reason: Inserting an NGT (nasogastric tube) is not an immediate priority in the acute management of a stroke. This might be considered later if the patient has swallowing difficulties and needs nutritional support, but it is not a first-line intervention.

Choice C reason: Anticipating thrombolytic therapy for ischemic stroke is appropriate, as timely administration of thrombolytics can dissolve the clot and improve blood flow to the affected brain area, potentially reducing the severity of the stroke.

Choice D reason: Establishing IV access with normal saline is crucial for administering medications and maintaining hydration. It ensures that the patient can receive necessary interventions promptly.

Choice E reason: Placing the patient in the prone position is not appropriate in the management of an acute stroke. The prone position is generally used in respiratory conditions to improve oxygenation but is not relevant to stroke management.