American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Practice Exam 2025 - Free ANCC Practice Questions and Study Guide

In African American patients, thiazide diuretics are often considered a first-line treatment for hypertension and have been shown to be particularly effective within this population. This effectiveness is attributed to the differences in the pathophysiology of hypertension among various ethnic groups. Research indicates that African American patients may respond better to thiazide diuretics due to a higher likelihood of volume overload being a significant contributing factor to their hypertension.

Thiazide diuretics work by promoting sodium and water excretion, which helps to reduce blood volume and lower blood pressure. Additionally, these medications can also have a favorable impact on mitigating the risk of cardiovascular events. In clinical practice guidelines for hypertension management, thiazide diuretics are recommended as a preferred option for African American individuals, reinforcing their role in a tailored treatment plan.

While other classes of medications, such as beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors, can still be effective, they may not provide the same level of effectiveness or may require more careful consideration of side effects in this demographic.