Nursing
Nursing Care Plan for Hypertension 2026 — Free NCP Template
May 30, 2026
Hypertension Overview
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is defined as systolic BP consistently above 130 mmHg or diastolic BP above 80 mmHg. It is one of the most common conditions nurses encounter and a major risk factor for stroke, heart attack, and kidney disease.
Nursing Assessment for Hypertension
Subjective data: Headache, dizziness, blurred vision, chest pain, shortness of breath, history of hypertension, current medications, family history, lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol).
Objective data: BP readings (both arms, sitting and standing), heart rate, weight, fundoscopic changes, peripheral edema, lab results (BMP, UA, lipid panel), ECG findings.
Nursing Diagnoses for Hypertension
- Risk for decreased cardiac output related to increased peripheral vascular resistance
- Deficient knowledge related to disease process, medications, and lifestyle modifications
- Nonadherence related to side effects of antihypertensive medications
- Anxiety related to diagnosis and lifestyle changes required
Nursing Interventions
- Monitor BP every 4 hours or per protocol — note trends and report values above 180/120
- Administer antihypertensives as ordered — ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, diuretics
- Implement DASH diet education — low sodium (below 2g/day), high potassium, fruits and vegetables
- Encourage regular aerobic exercise — 30 minutes most days
- Teach stress reduction techniques — deep breathing, meditation
- Monitor for end-organ damage — neuro checks, urine output, chest pain
Expected Outcomes
- Patient will maintain BP below 130/80 mmHg within 4 weeks
- Patient will verbalize understanding of medications and side effects before discharge
- Patient will demonstrate correct BP monitoring technique
Find free hypertension nursing care plan examples at studyrift.com/documents.