Question

Mr. Phil Dunfry, age 42, is seen in the clinic for a follow-up visit for hypertension. His blood pressure (BP) is 160/92 mm/Hg, and he is diagnosed with hypertension. The health care provider encourages continued lifestyle modification and prescribes hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL).

1. Why is hydrochlorothiazide prescribed?
2. What additional information should the nurse collect to develop a teaching plan for lifestyle modification and the medication?
3. What interventions will help Mr. Dunfry reach his goal of controlling his hypertension?
4. How will you know Mr. Dunfry has reached his goals?

Answer 1

Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic medication often used to treat high blood pressure and swelling due to fluid build-up. Here in this case its been prescribed to maintain Phil's Blood pressure

The nurse should ask these three main questions:

• whether patients were rushing or physically active just before the appointment
• whether they have been taking their medication
• what kind of diet and physical activity regimen they have.

Interventions to help Mr. Phil would be:

• Encourage the patient to consult a dietitian to help develop a plan for improving nutrient intake or for weight loss.
• Encourage restriction of sodium and fat
• Emphasize increase intake of fruits and vegetables.
• Implement regular physical activity.
• Advise patient to limit alcohol consumption and avoidance of tobacco.
• Assist the patient to develop and adhere to an appropriate exercise regimen.

I will recommend the patient to have a weekly follow-up apppointment and check his blood pressure to see if theres any improvement .If not i would cahnge his teaching plans to suit his lifestyle to the maximum.