Cardiac Vascular Nursing Certification Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cardiac Vascular Nursing Practice Questions and Study Guide

Beta-blockers are not considered a first-line therapy for hypertension according to the JNC 8 guidelines. While beta-blockers can be effective in certain patient populations and for specific conditions such as heart failure or ischemic heart disease, they are not universally recommended as a primary treatment for hypertension in the general population.

The JNC 8 guidelines prioritize other classes of medications for initial management of hypertension, which include ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and thiazide diuretics. These agents have demonstrated robust efficacy in lowering blood pressure and reducing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in a wide range of patients.

Thiazide diuretics, for instance, are particularly noted for their effectiveness and low cost, making them a popular choice for first-line therapy. ACE inhibitors are favored for their renal protective effects and are especially beneficial for patients with diabetes or chronic kidney disease. Calcium channel blockers are effective in managing hypertension and can also have beneficial effects on heart rate and vascular smooth muscle relaxation.

In summary, the JNC 8 guidelines advocate for ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and thiazide diuretics as first-line treatments for managing hypertension, while beta-blockers are more selectively used based on individual patient needs and comorbidities.