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Hypertension Nursing Study Guide (NCLEX & Med-
Surg)
1. Definition of Hypertension
Hypertension (HTN) is a chronic condition where arterial blood
pressure is persistently elevated, increasing the risk for cardiovascular
disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
Blood Pressure Categories (Adults)
Category Systolic Diastolic
Normal <120 <80
Elevated 120–129 <80
Stage 1 HTN 130–139 80–89
Stage 2 HTN ≥140 ≥90
Hypertensive Crisis ≥180 ≥120
NCLEX Tip:
Hypertensive crisis requires immediate medical intervention to prevent
organ damage.
2. Types of Hypertension
1. Primary (Essential) Hypertension
• Most common (≈90–95%)
• No identifiable cause
• Develops gradually over years
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2. Secondary Hypertension
Caused by an underlying condition such as:
• Kidney disease
• Endocrine disorders
• Medications (oral contraceptives, NSAIDs)
• Obstructive sleep apnea
3. Risk Factors
Non-modifiable
• Age
• Family history
• African ancestry
• Genetics
Modifiable
• Obesity
• High sodium diet
• Smoking
• Alcohol use
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Stress
• Diabetes
• Hyperlipidemia
NCLEX Trick:
Most exam questions emphasize modifiable lifestyle changes.
4. Pathophysiology (Simplified)
Hypertension Nursing Study Guide (NCLEX & Med-
Surg)
1. Definition of Hypertension
Hypertension (HTN) is a chronic condition where arterial blood
pressure is persistently elevated, increasing the risk for cardiovascular
disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
Blood Pressure Categories (Adults)
Category Systolic Diastolic
Normal <120 <80
Elevated 120–129 <80
Stage 1 HTN 130–139 80–89
Stage 2 HTN ≥140 ≥90
Hypertensive Crisis ≥180 ≥120
NCLEX Tip:
Hypertensive crisis requires immediate medical intervention to prevent
organ damage.
2. Types of Hypertension
1. Primary (Essential) Hypertension
• Most common (≈90–95%)
• No identifiable cause
• Develops gradually over years
, 2|Page
2. Secondary Hypertension
Caused by an underlying condition such as:
• Kidney disease
• Endocrine disorders
• Medications (oral contraceptives, NSAIDs)
• Obstructive sleep apnea
3. Risk Factors
Non-modifiable
• Age
• Family history
• African ancestry
• Genetics
Modifiable
• Obesity
• High sodium diet
• Smoking
• Alcohol use
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Stress
• Diabetes
• Hyperlipidemia
NCLEX Trick:
Most exam questions emphasize modifiable lifestyle changes.
4. Pathophysiology (Simplified)
