What effect do antihypertensives have on the heart?

Antihypertensives primarily work to manage high blood pressure by various mechanisms, one of which is reducing heart rate. Certain classes of antihypertensive medications, such as beta-blockers, reduce heart rate by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart. This leads to a decrease in cardiac output, which can effectively lower blood pressure.

In addition to reducing heart rate, many antihypertensives affect the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), leading to a restriction of aldosterone secretion. Aldosterone is a hormone that promotes sodium and water retention, increasing blood volume and, subsequently, blood pressure. By inhibiting the action of aldosterone, these medications promote diuresis (increased urine production), which helps to reduce blood volume and lower blood pressure.

Understanding this mechanism is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers as it highlights the therapeutic goals of managing hypertension and mitigating its long-term cardiovascular risks. Therefore, the correct choice reflects the dual impact of antihypertensives on both heart rate and hormonal regulation, directly contributing to their effectiveness in treating patients with hypertension.