The assessment findings of a patient with myocardial infarction (MI) include jugular venous distention, weight gain, peripheral edema, and a heart rate of 108/minute. The nurse suspects what complication?

Among the given options, the most important information for the nurse to include when teaching a client newly diagnosed with hypertension is option C, "Increasing physical activity controls blood pressure (BP) for most people."

Option C emphasizes the importance of increasing physical activity as a primary lifestyle modification to control blood pressure for most people with hypertension. Regular physical activity can help improve cardiovascular health, reduce blood pressure, and manage overall health. It is a proactive step that the individual can take immediately to start managing their hypertension.

Incorrect:

Option A, "Most people are able to control BP through dietary changes," is not necessarily true for everyone. While dietary changes, such as reducing sodium intake and adopting a heart-healthy diet, can be beneficial in managing hypertension, they may not be sufficient for everyone. Physical activity is an essential component of hypertension management and has broader health benefits.

Option B, "Annual BP checks are needed to monitor treatment effectiveness," is important information, but it is more of a recommendation for ongoing hypertension management rather than the most critical information for someone newly diagnosed with hypertension. Regular blood pressure monitoring is indeed crucial for treatment assessment and ensuring that the chosen treatment plan is effective.

Option D, "Hypertension is usually asymptomatic until target organ damage occurs," is important information to understand the nature of hypertension, but it does not provide immediate guidance for the newly diagnosed individual on how to manage their condition effectively.

As part of a comprehensive hypertension education plan, the nurse can provide additional information about dietary changes, regular blood pressure monitoring, and the importance of early management to prevent target organ damage. However, emphasizing physical activity as a fundamental aspect of hypertension management is the most important initial step for a newly diagnosed client. The nurse can then tailor the education based on the individual's specific needs and health status.

The client taking isosorbide dinitrate/hydralazine (BiDil) and experiencing a headache should be assessed first. Isosorbide dinitrate/hydralazine is a medication combination used to treat heart failure, particularly in African American patients. However, one of the side effects of hydralazine is headaches.

Headache in a client taking this medication may indicate increased blood pressure as a compensatory response to vasodilation. If not addressed promptly, it may lead to worsening heart failure or other complications. Therefore, it is essential to assess the client's blood pressure, signs of worsening heart failure, and evaluate the severity and duration of the headache.

The other options may also require attention:

A) A client taking digoxin with a potassium level of 3.1 mEq/L needs assessment, as hypokalemia can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. However, the headache in the BiDil client takes priority due to the potential complications related to increased blood pressure.

B) A client taking captopril and experiencing a frequent nonproductive cough may indicate a side effect of the medication. While it should be assessed, it is not as immediately concerning as the headache in the BiDil client.

C) A client taking carvedilol (Coreg) with a heart rate of 58 is within an acceptable range, especially if the client is tolerating it well without symptoms. It may not require immediate assessment unless there are other concerning symptoms.