SN instructed patient / caregiver on factors that increase risk of HTN, such as: age, race, family history, stress, high sodium intake, high cholesterol intake, obesity and sedentary lifestyle. SN instructed patient / caregiver on measures to control/manage HTN, such as: exercise as tolerated, achieve/maintain healthy/ideal weight, decrease sodium intake to decrease fluid retention and the workload of the heart. SN Instructed importance of eating foods rich in calcium, protein and fiber.
Patient was instructed on HTN and how it affects the heart and it's function. Over time HTN if uncontrolled can damage the vessels of the heart, leaving it unable to pump blood efficiently. This causes what is known as heart failure. Symptoms you may experience and should report to your MD are swelling in your feet or hands, crackles in your chest when breathing, increased shortness of breath.