The treatment algorithm included in JNC-VI has been modified from previous guidelines. The JNC-VI guidelines include discussions of the management of hypertensive emergencies and urgencies, and the management of hypertension in special populations, including racial and ethnic minorities, children and adolescents, pregnant women and the elderly. Recommendations for treating hypertension in children and adolescents have also been presented in detail in a 1996 report. The JNC-VI provides many new features and recommendations. The development of a risk stratification system is a major improvement.
Pharmacists can play a major role in the management and prevention of hypertension.
In the report, pharmacists are encouraged to monitor patients' use of medications, to provide information about potential adverse effects, and to ensure that drug interactions are avoided. Pharmacists who are involved in the management of patients with hypertension are strongly encouraged to become familiar with the entire JNC-VI report. References are available upon request from Pharmacy Practice. Phm., is a drug information specialist at the Ottawa Valley Regional Drug Information Service at Ottawa General Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario. Throughout the year, he will be sharing this space with contributor Glen Schoepp.