The nurse is teaching a patient, newly diagnosed with primary hypertension, about the recommended blood pressure range needed to prevent organ damage. Which range, chosen by patient, indicates that the teaching was successful?

Answer: D

Rationale:

A) A renal ultrasound: A renal ultrasound is not typically used to confirm a diagnosis of hypertension. While renal artery stenosis can contribute to hypertension in some cases, it is not the primary diagnostic test for hypertension.

B) A cardiac stress test: A cardiac stress test is not used to confirm a diagnosis of hypertension. It is primarily used to assess cardiovascular function and detect coronary artery disease or cardiac arrhythmias.

C) A manual blood pressure cuff: While manual blood pressure measurements can provide accurate readings, they are subject to potential inaccuracies due to factors such as observer bias and white coat syndrome. Therefore, they may not be the most reliable method for confirming a diagnosis of hypertension.

D) Ambulatory blood pressure measurement: Ambulatory blood pressure measurement involves obtaining multiple blood pressure readings over a 24-hour period using a portable monitor. It is considered the gold standard for diagnosing hypertension, as it provides a more comprehensive assessment of blood pressure variability and reduces the impact of white coat syndrome. Therefore, it is the preferred diagnostic test in this scenario to confirm whether the patient has hypertension outside of the clinical setting.

A. Following proper handwashing and use of masks: While handwashing and wearing masks are important infection control measures, they are not specific to preventing hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. While HBV can be present in blood and certain body fluids, such as semen and vaginal fluids, the primary modes of transmission are through activities that involve percutaneous or mucosal exposure to infected blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex, sharing needles, or accidental needlesticks. While hand hygiene and mask use are crucial in healthcare settings to prevent the transmission of various infections, including HBV, they may not offer sufficient protection against HBV transmission in all situations.

B. Avoiding chemicals that are toxic and polluted air: While avoiding toxic chemicals and polluted air is important for overall health and may support liver health indirectly, it is not directly related to preventing HBV infection. HBV is primarily transmitted through exposure to infected blood or body fluids rather than environmental factors such as air pollution or exposure to toxic chemicals.

C. Public health education and vaccination: This is the most appropriate measure for preventing HBV infection. Public health education plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the risks of HBV transmission and promoting behaviors that reduce the risk of exposure, such as safe sex practices, avoiding sharing needles, and seeking medical care for potential exposures. Additionally, vaccination against HBV is highly effective in preventing infection and is recommended for all individuals, particularly those at increased risk of exposure, such as healthcare workers, people with multiple sexual partners, and individuals who inject drugs. Vaccination not only protects vaccinated individuals but also contributes to herd immunity, reducing the overall prevalence of HBV in the population.

D. Limiting alcohol intake of red and white wine: While limiting alcohol intake is important for liver health, particularly in individuals with liver disease, it is not specifically aimed at preventing HBV infection. Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to liver damage and may exacerbate liver disease in individuals infected with HBV. However, it does not directly address the risk of HBV transmission.