A nurse is educating a group of older adults on the impact of lifestyle changes on hypertension. The nurse includes which of the following in the education? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
A. The importance of adhering to pharmacological regimens for treatment of hypertension: While adherence is crucial, this topic addresses drug management, which is a pharmacological intervention, not a lifestyle change. B. The sodium content of commonly consumed foods: Understanding which foods are high in sodium empowers older adults to make healthier dietary choices. Reducing sodium intake helps lower blood pressure by minimizing fluid retention and vascular resistance, a key component of nonpharmacological hypertension management. C. Learning how to read and interpret food labels: Teaching clients to read nutrition labels enables them to identify hidden sources of sodium, fats, and sugars. This skill supports better dietary planning and helps promote long-term lifestyle adherence to heart-healthy eating patterns such as the DASH diet. D. Techniques to incorporate more physical activity into the daily routine: Regular exercise improves cardiovascular function, promotes weight control, and reduces blood pressure. Simple strategies such as walking, stretching, or light aerobic activities make lifestyle modification achievable and sustainable for older adults. E. The actions of calcium channel blocker medications on hypertension: While medication knowledge is important, detailed pharmacologic mechanisms are beyond the scope of general lifestyle education. Teaching at this level focuses more on adherence, side effect monitoring, and lifestyle synergy rather than in-depth drug action.