Coping with hypertension

Helping patients with hypertension achieve effective coping outcomes entails the implementation of multiple, autonomous nursing interventions specifically related to teaching and support. By teaching specific cognitive and behavioral strategies, the nurse assists the patient in developing effective means of incorporating the treatment regimen into a more healthful lifestyle. The supportive nursing actions help the patient make the necessary changes by providing the environment in which change may occur. As a result, the patient may reappraise the diagnosis of hypertension and its therapeutic regimen as less threatening and may consequently assume a more active role in its management.