Mr. James is a 62-year-old African-American male with a history of gout, type II diabetes mellitus, and high cholesterol. His father died of a myocardial infarction, and his mother is alive and healthy. He had a left knee replacement at age 59. Since turning 60, Mr. James has adopted a low-fat diet and walks daily with his wife. His average resting pulse rate is 70, and his blood pressure averages 140/90. What patient teaching should the nurse provide to help Mr. James decrease his risk for stroke? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: A heart-healthy diet that lowers cholesterol reduces the risk of atherosclerosis, which is a major contributor to ischemic stroke. Mr. James is already following a low-fat diet, and continued education reinforces its importance. Choice B reason: Completing an antibiotic regimen is important for infection control but has no direct impact on stroke prevention unless the infection is contributing to systemic inflammation or cardiac complications. Choice C reason: Avoiding allergens is relevant for managing allergic reactions but does not influence stroke risk unless anaphylaxis or severe inflammation is involved, which is rare. Choice D reason: Hypertension is a leading modifiable risk factor for stroke. Mr. James’s blood pressure of 140/90 is elevated, and strategies to reduce it—such as medication, diet, and exercise—are essential. Choice E reason: Diabetes increases the risk of vascular complications including stroke. Effective management of blood glucose levels is critical in reducing this risk.