The nurse is educating a client with hypertension on the importance of maintaining an optimal weight. The client asks the nurse how much weight loss is needed. The nurse's response is based on the knowledge that a weight loss of 11 to ________ lb produces a measurable decrease in blood pressure.
Record your answer rounding to the nearest whole number.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Therapeutic lifestyle changes should be recommended for all clients with prehypertension or HTN. Of greatest importance is maintaining optimum weight, since obesity is closely associated with dyslipidemia (abnormal serum lipid levels) and HTN. A 5- to 9-kg (11- to 20-lb) weight loss often produces a measurable decrease in blood pressure, even in clients who are obese. Combining a medically supervised weight loss program with proper nutrition can delay the progression from prehypertension to HTN.

The Nurse Is Educating a Client with Hypertension on the Importance