During a routine health care appointment, a male patient is found to have a blood pressure of 150/94 mm Hg. Which of the following courses of action is most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient described in this scenario has an elevated blood pressure reading on a single office visit. So long as this condition has not been identified in the past, the patient should return in a few days for a repeat check of his blood pressure. If the patient has been noted to have high blood pressures in the past, he may now have Stage 1 hypertension. In this case he should begin an eating plan (such as the American Heart Association Step 1 diet) in which he restricts total calories slightly, increases his consumption of fresh foods (especially vegetables) and decreases his intake of salt, saturated fats, and sugary drinks. He should also gradually increase his level of exercise. If he has been sedentary in the past it is advisable to begin an exercise regimen under professional supervision. Weight loss of several pounds over several months should be attempted, and the patient should be encouraged to try to maintain this weight loss. Stage 1 hypertension is not a medical emergency. The patient does not need hospitalization. Sublingual nifedipine can drastically reduce blood pressures and coronary and cerebral perfusion. Blood pressure authorities discourage its use.

During a Routine Health Care Appointment, a Male Patient Is