Hypertensive Acute Heart Failure: An Evidence Based Approach

This review highlights current approaches in managing hypertensive acute heart failure (H-AHF) relevant to nurse practitioners. It emphasizes the shift from volume overload to vascular redistribution as the primary cause of congestion, prioritizing vasodilators over diuretics unless overt fluid overload exists. Sequential nephron blockade and high-dose IV nitroglycerin demonstrate promise in overcoming diuretic resistance and rapidly reducing cardiac pressures. Noninvasive ventilation supports respiratory recovery in acute pulmonary edema. While these strategies improve outcomes, further research is needed to optimize safety and efficacy in diverse clinical settings.