Diffusing the Time Bomb of Hypertensive Crisis is organized by American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN).

Released/Updated: Dec 20, 2018
Expires: Dec 20, 2020

Accreditation:
• Contact Hours: 1.25
• CERP A: 1.25
• Pharmacology Hours: 0.90
• AACN programming meets the standards for most states that require mandatory continuing education contact hours for license and/or certification renewal.

Description:
Hypertension is the most common patient disorder seen in the primary care setting, affecting 34% of the American adult population and contributing to 8% of cardiovascular deaths. An estimated 1 billion adults worldwide are hypertensive, as defined as a blood pressure >140/90, leading to 7.5 million deaths. This session explores pathophysiology and epidemiology of hypertensive crisis, including presentation, assessment and diagnostic testing. Risk factors and complications associated with hypertensive crisis are described. Relevant research based on current treatment guidelines is discussed. A comprehensive review of pharmacologic management is described, including use of parenteral, beta-blockers, vasodilators, calcium-channel blockers and alpha 2 agonist agents. Use of oral medications to prevent recurrent hypertensive emergencies is also reviewed. Information is provided regarding patient education and its importance in prevention of hypertensive crisis. APRN pharmacology content = 75%.

Objective:
• Define and list four risk factors of hypertensive crisis.
• Identify three potential complications of hypertensive crisis.
• Describe medications commonly used to treat hypertensive crisis.

Topics: Cardiovascular, Pharmacology

Level: Proficient

Population: Adult

Role: APRN

Additional details will be posted as soon as information is available.