A patient has a blood pressure of 135/85 mm Hg on three separate occasions. The nurse understands that this patient should be treated with

A. a diuretic: Diuretics are typically considered when lifestyle modifications are insufficient or for higher blood pressure readings. At 135/85 mm Hg, the patient is in the elevated or stage 1 hypertension range, so medication is not the first-line treatment. B. ACE inhibitor: ACE inhibitors are prescribed for patients with hypertension requiring pharmacologic intervention, particularly with comorbidities like diabetes or heart failure. For borderline or mildly elevated BP, lifestyle changes are preferred initially. C. a beta blocker: Beta blockers are used in patients with specific cardiovascular indications or higher blood pressure levels. Initiating a beta blocker at 135/85 mm Hg without other risk factors is not standard first-line therapy. D. lifestyle changes: Nonpharmacologic interventions—such as reducing sodium intake, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight—are first-line treatments for patients with mildly elevated BP. These changes can help prevent progression to stage 2 hypertension and reduce cardiovascular risk.