A patient has been newly diagnosed with hypertension. The nurse ...

[Capo]

A patient has been newly diagnosed with hypertension. The nurse assesses the need to develop a collaborative plan of care that includes a goal of adhering to the prescribed regimen.
 
  When the nurse is planning teaching for the patient, which is the most important initial learning goal?
  a. The patient will select the type of learning materials they prefer.
  b. The patient will verbalize an understanding of the importance of following the regimen.
  c. The patient will demonstrate coping skills needed to manage hypertension.
  d. The patient will verbalize the side effects of treatment.

Question 2

After the nurse implements a teaching plan for a newly diagnosed patient with hypertension, the patient can explain the information but fails to take the medications as prescribed. What is the nurse's next action?
 
  a. Reeducate the patient, because learning did not occur because the patient's behavior did not change.
  b. Assess the patient's perception and attitude towards the risks associated with not taking their anti-hypertensives.
  c. Take full responsibility for helping the patient make dietary changes.
  d. Ask the provider to prescribe a different medication, because the patient does not want to take this medication.

[mohan]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Adults learn best when given information they can understand that is tailored to their learning styles and needs. Verbalizing an understanding is important; however, the nurse will first need to teach the patient.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Although the patient behavior has not changed, the patient's ability to explain the information indicates that learning has occurred. The nurse would need to ask what the patient's perceptions are of taking the medications to determine if the patient understands the ramifications of not taking the medication. The patient may be in the contemplation or preparation state (see Health Belief Model). The nurse should reinforce the need for change and continue to provide information and assistance with planning for change.

[Capo]

Both answers were spot on, thank you once again

[mohan]

Great! Please up vote