After the nurse implements a teaching plan for a newly diagnosed patient with hypertension, the patient can explain the information but fails to take the medications as prescribed. What is the nurse's next action?

A) Reeducate the patient, because learning did not occur because the patient's behavior did not change.
B) Assess the patient's perception and attitude towards the risks associated with not taking their anti-hypertensives.
C) Take full responsibility for helping the patient make dietary changes.
D) Ask the provider to prescribe a different medication, because the patient does not want to take this medication.

Question

aubree guest · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : B, Explanation :  Although the patient behavior has not changed, the patient's ability to explain the information indicates that learning has occurred. The nurse would need to ask what the patient's perceptions are of taking the medications to determine if the patient understands the ramifications of not taking the medication. The patient may be in the contemplation or preparation state (see Health Belief Model). The nurse should reinforce the need for change and continue to provide information and assistance with planning for change.

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