Keywords

American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, BP, guidelines, hypertension, hypertension diagnosis, treatment

Authors

1. Scordo, Kristine Anne PhD, APRN, ACNP-BC, FAANP

Abstract

Abstract: The new hypertension guideline lowers the definition of high BP to 130/80 mm Hg. This means that millions of adults will now be diagnosed with hypertension and that many of those taking antihypertensive drugs are not at goal. The challenge is to communicate the change, the strength of evidence behind the change, and the options available to patients. Healthcare providers must be knowledgeable of the new guideline and must be ready to meet this challenge.