STROKE: PREVENTION WITH ANTIHYPERTENSIVE MEDICATIONS

Course overview

Stroke is a medical emergency that occurs as a result of cerebral ischemia (ischemic stroke) or cerebral hemorrhage (hemorrhagic stroke) that disrupts the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain, resulting in permanent damage. Hypertension (HTN), generally defined as systolic blood pressure [SBP] ≥ 140 mm Hg or diastolic blood pressure [DBP] ≥ 90 mm Hg, is recognized as the most important modifiable risk factor for stroke. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of stroke prevention with antihypertensive medications and the potential adverse effects of these drugs to aid in caring for the patient with this diagnosis. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.