What measurable patient outcome should be included in a care plan for a patient treated for hypertension?

The measurable patient outcome that should be included in a care plan for a patient treated for hypertension is centered around sodium intake. Monitoring sodium intake is crucial for managing blood pressure effectively, as high sodium levels can contribute to fluid retention and increased blood volume, leading to elevated blood pressure. By setting a goal for the patient to reduce sodium intake to no more than 2.4 g daily, healthcare providers can help the patient achieve better control over hypertension. This objective is specific, quantifiable, and directly tied to improving cardiovascular health.

In contrast, while managing fat intake and maintaining normal body weight are important aspects of comprehensive healthcare and can indirectly influence blood pressure, they are not as directly linked to blood pressure control as sodium reduction. Similarly, stable BUN and serum creatinine levels are important for kidney function monitoring, especially in patients with hypertension or those on certain antihypertensive medications, but they are not as actionable or specific as a direct sodium intake goal in terms of hypertension management. Therefore, focusing on sodium intake provides a clear, measurable outcome that directly impacts the patient's blood pressure management.