HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

Which lifestyle change is recommended for someone diagnosed with hypertension?

1. Increase salt intake

2. Engage in regular physical activity

3. Reduce daily water consumption

4. Limit fruit and vegetable intake

The correct answer is: Engage in regular physical activity

Engaging in regular physical activity is a crucial lifestyle change recommended for individuals diagnosed with hypertension. Exercise can help lower blood pressure by improving the efficiency of the heart and blood vessels. It aids in maintaining a healthy weight, which is particularly important because excess weight can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Additionally, physical activity promotes overall cardiovascular health, improves circulation, and can enhance heart function. This recommendation is consistent with guidelines from health organizations that emphasize the role of a balanced lifestyle, including physical exercise, in managing hypertension and reducing cardiovascular risk. Regular aerobic activities, such as walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming, are specifically beneficial and are generally recommended for at least 150 minutes per week. In contrast, the other suggested lifestyle changes are not supportive of managing hypertension. Increasing salt intake can exacerbate high blood pressure, while reducing water consumption and limiting fruit and vegetable intake can negatively impact overall health and provide insufficient nutrients for proper body function.