Which dietary modification should a nurse suggest to a patient with hypertension?

Patients with hypertension are often advised to modify their diet to help manage their blood pressure effectively. Increasing potassium intake is beneficial because potassium plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure. It helps balance sodium levels in the body, promoting the excretion of sodium through urine, which can help lower blood pressure. Foods rich in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, spinach, and potatoes, can aid in this process and contribute to overall cardiovascular health.

In contrast, increasing sodium intake would exacerbate hypertension, as high sodium levels can lead to water retention and elevated blood pressure. High cholesterol foods can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and are not recommended for someone managing hypertension. Limiting water intake is not a typical recommendation for hypertension; in fact, maintaining proper hydration is generally advised. Therefore, the suggestion to increase potassium intake is the most appropriate dietary modification for a patient with hypertension.