Diuretics are drugs that increase urine output and reduce fluid volume in the body.   They lower blood pressure by decreasing the amount of sodium and water in the blood vessels, which reduces the pressure on the walls of the arteries.   Diuretics are often the first-line therapy for hypertension, especially for older adults and African Americans.

Choice A is wrong because reaching the goal blood pressure depends on many factors, such as the severity of hypertension, the response to medication, and the lifestyle changes of the client.   It may take longer than 2 months to achieve optimal blood pressure control.

Choice C is wrong because limiting alcohol consumption to three drinks a day is not enough to prevent or treat hypertension.   Alcohol can raise blood pressure by interfering with the effects of medication, stimulating the nervous system, and increasing fluid retention.   The recommended limit for alcohol intake is no more than one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men.

Choice D is wrong because hypertension cannot be cured with medication.   Hypertension is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management and monitoring.   Medication can help lower blood pressure, but it does not address the underlying causes of hypertension, such as genetics, obesity, stress, or kidney disease.   Lifestyle modifications, such as diet, exercise, weight loss, and smoking cessation, are also essential for preventing complications and improving quality of life.

Normal ranges for blood pressure are:

• Systolic: less than 120 mm Hg

• Diastolic: less than 80 mm Hg

Hypertension is defined as:

• Systolic: 130 mm Hg or higher

• Diastolic: 80 mm Hg or higher