Which organs are most susceptible to changes in pressure and perfusion due to hypertension?

Study for the Barron/Elsevier CCRN Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Ensure success on your exam!

The choice identifying the heart, brain, kidney, and retina is correct because these organs are particularly sensitive to changes in blood pressure and perfusion due to their high metabolic demands and unique vascular structures.

The heart requires consistent perfusion to maintain its function and is directly affected by increased pressure, which can lead to hypertrophy and other complications. The brain is highly vulnerable to fluctuations in perfusion, as even brief ischemic episodes can result in neurological deficits or stroke. The kidneys are crucial for regulating blood pressure and require adequate perfusion to filter blood effectively; damage can lead to renal failure. Lastly, the retina is susceptible to hypertensive changes, which can result in vision loss through conditions like hypertensive retinopathy.

In contrast, while the liver, lungs, skin, intestines, pancreas, spleen, muscles, bones, fat, and connective tissue may experience effects from hypertension, they are not as immediately affected by changes in pressure and perfusion in the same manner as the organs listed in the correct option. These organs generally have more robust mechanisms to compensate for variations in blood flow, making them less vulnerable in acute situations.

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