In treating Mr. R. J. for hypertension, what is the most appropriate prescription given his current health situation?

In treating hypertension, particularly in a primary care setting, thiazide diuretics such as Hydrochlorothiazide are commonly first-line medications recommended for managing elevated blood pressure. Evidence supports their efficacy in reducing blood pressure and, importantly, in decreasing the risk of cardiovascular events.

The choice of Hydrochlorothiazide in a primary care scenario typically takes into account various factors such as the patient's overall health, comorbidities, and lifestyle. If Mr. R. J.'s hypertension is uncomplicated and he can tolerate the medication, starting him on Hydrochlorothiazide at 12.5 mg daily aligns well with established guidelines.

Lifestyle modifications are crucial and important for all patients with hypertension, but referring to a cardiologist would generally be considered if there were more complex cardiovascular concerns or if the hypertension were resistant to initial management. Atenolol can be beneficial for specific patient populations, such as those with coronary artery disease or heart failure. However, it's not typically considered the first choice for uncomplicated hypertension in most cases, especially when there are effective alternatives like thiazide diuretics available.

Therefore, prescribing Hydrochlorothiazide effectively addresses Mr. R. J.'s hypertension management while incorporating the necessary guidelines for first-line treatment.