A patient with primary hypertension complains of dizziness with ambulation. The patient is currently on an alpha-adrenergic blocker and the nurse assesses characteristic signs and symptoms of postural hypotension. When teaching this patient about risks associated with postural hypotension, what should the nurse emphasize?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Patients who experience postural hypotension should be taught to rise slowly from a lying or sitting position and use a cane or walker if necessary for safety. It is not necessary to teach these patients about increasing fluids or taking medication in the morning (this would increase the effects of dizziness). Patient should not be taught to stop the medication if dizziness persists because this is unsafe and beyond the nurses scope of practice.

A Patient with Primary Hypertension Complains of Dizziness with Ambulation BP\mathrm{BP}BP

A Patient with Primary Hypertension Complains of Dizziness with Ambulation $\mathrm{BP}$