If a patient has elevated blood pressure due to fluid overload, which class of drug should the therapist administer?

Diuretics are the appropriate class of drug to administer in cases where a patient has elevated blood pressure due to fluid overload. This is because diuretics work by promoting the excretion of sodium and water from the kidneys, effectively reducing the overall fluid volume in the body. As the fluid volume decreases, blood pressure is likely to lower as well since there is less volume in the circulatory system exerting pressure against the arterial walls.

The use of diuretics specifically addresses the underlying issue of fluid overload, making it a targeted and effective treatment option to bring blood pressure levels back to a normal range. Through this reduction in fluid retention, diuretics can help manage symptoms and prevent complications associated with high blood pressure, which may include heart strain or pulmonary congestion.

In contrast, negative inotropes focus on decreasing the force of heart contractions and are not primarily indicated for fluid overload-related hypertension. Chronotropic drugs alter heart rate, which does not directly address fluid status or blood pressure caused by fluid overload. Antihypertensives might lower blood pressure but may not tackle the fluid retention aspect of the patient's condition, and thus, they may not be as effective as diuretics in cases specifically tied to fluid overload.