A patient taking somatropin growth hormone needs to be educated on signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia. What will the nurse include in this teaching? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY

Choice A reason: Age is a non-modifiable risk factor for hypertension because the risk of high blood pressure increases as we get older. This is due to changes in the heart and blood vessels, such as loss of elasticity and stiffening of the arteries, that affect the blood flow and pressure. ¹

Choice B reason: Genetics is a non-modifiable risk factor for hypertension because some people inherit genes that make them more likely to develop high blood pressure. For example, people of African and Black Caribbean descent have a higher risk of hypertension due to genetic variations that affect salt sensitivity and blood vessel function. ²

Choice C reason: Smoking is a modifiable risk factor for hypertension because it can be changed or avoided by quitting tobacco use. Smoking damages the blood vessels and increases the risk of atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in the arteries that narrows them and raises blood pressure. Smoking also lowers the level of good cholesterol (HDL) and raises the level of bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, which are fats in the blood that contribute to plaque formation. ³

Choice D reason: Obesity is a modifiable risk factor for hypertension because it can be changed or prevented by losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight. Obesity increases the risk of high blood pressure by putting extra strain on the heart and blood vessels, as well as by causing hormonal and metabolic changes that affect blood pressure regulation. Obesity is also associated with other conditions that can raise blood pressure, such as diabetes, sleep apnea, and kidney disease. ⁴

Choice E reason: Sedentary lifestyle is a modifiable risk factor for hypertension because it can be changed or improved by increasing physical activity. Sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of high blood pressure by reducing the ability of the blood vessels to dilate and contract, as well as by increasing the risk of obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Physical activity helps to lower blood pressure by improving blood flow, strengthening the heart muscle, and lowering body weight and stress levels. .

Choice A reason: Maintaining a healthy weight is important for lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Obesity is associated with higher levels of LDL-cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol) and lower levels of HDL-cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol). Losing weight can improve these ratios and lower blood pressure. ¹

Choice B reason: Avoiding cigarettes and other nicotine products is essential for preventing cardiovascular disease. Smoking damages the blood vessels and increases the risk of atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Smoking also lowers HDL-cholesterol and raises triglycerides, another type of fat in the blood. Quitting smoking can improve cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart attack and stroke. ²

Choice C reason: Importance of regular exercise is another key factor for improving cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health. Exercise helps to lower LDL-cholesterol and raise HDL-cholesterol, as well as lower blood pressure and blood sugar. Exercise also strengthens the heart muscle and improves blood flow. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, or a combination of both. ³

Choice D reason: Positive stress management techniques are not directly related to cholesterol levels or statin medications, but they may have some benefits for cardiovascular health. Stress can increase blood pressure and heart rate, and may trigger unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, drinking, or overeating. Stress can also affect the immune system and inflammation, which may contribute to atherosclerosis. Learning to cope with stress in healthy ways, such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, or counseling, may help to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. ⁴

Choice E reason: Healthy low fat diet options are an important part of lowering cholesterol levels and preventing cardiovascular disease. A diet that is high in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol can raise LDL-cholesterol and lower HDL-cholesterol. A diet that is low in fat and high in fiber, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can lower LDL-cholesterol and raise HDL-cholesterol. Some foods, such as oats, nuts, soy, and fish, may have additional benefits for cholesterol levels. .