According to research found, a treatment for hypertension is centered around the individual, which requires the person to self manage or change their lifestyles with an ongoing observations in order to control hypertension (Allison, et al., 2014 & RNAO, 2005). Life style changes may include exercising, losing weight, and modifying their diet. Aerobic exercise, such as walking or jogging, help decrease high blood pressure as it can reduce artery stiffness. In turn, exercise helps reduce high blood pressure, therefore, preventing atherosclerosis, which may lead to myocardial infraction and possibly a stroke. Reducing sodium consumption yields a positive effect in reducing blood pressure. This can lead to a reduction in mortality related to cardiovascular disease (Elton, Feldman, Pleister, & Wexler, 2009). The individual’s ability to change their diet depends on their cultural customs, social factors, and their income. Family background can be another contributing factor due to cultural customs and social factors such as traditions. The cost of eating healthy is also highly dependent on the individuals’ income. Hypertension can be successfully treated and perhaps be prevented through lifestyle …show more content…
Nurses play an important role in helping the individual find out whether they have hypertension early; this can be by discovering and recognizing hypertension when assessing the individual’s blood pressure. Nurses can also inform the client on how to monitor their blood pressure at home by educating them on the equipment used and this in turn will help them control their blood pressure. Teaching clients about the normal ranges of blood pressure (100 – 140 mmHg systolic and 60 – 90 mmHg diastolic) and furthermore, assisting them in setting and reaching their target blood pressure goal. Nurses can also motivate clients to make lifestyle changes and give advice and positive feedback to the client when it is suitable (RNAO, 2005). Knowledge of utilizing and keeping a goal in mind will help the individual monitor and maintain their blood pressure. Research shows that improved control of high blood pressure decreases the possibility of getting coronary artery disease, heart failure, high blood sugar and cerebrovascular disease (Elton, et al., 2009). In Canada, 21% of clients had their blood pressure controlled when getting treatment compared to 7% in the US and 30% of clients in the UK (RNAO, 2005). Therefore, working towards a healthier lifestyle will improve the quality of life. This is seen when, “The prevention and control of hypertension has a major impact on