DNP Final Report: Hypertension Education In The Primary Care Setting

Background: Hypertension is a significant concern at the global, national, and local levels. If left untreated or improperly managed, it can result in severe health issues. Many patients in primary care settings have difficulty controlling their hypertension, which can lead to significant complications. Practice question: What strategies can be implemented to help patients in primary care manage their hypertension more effectively? PICOT: For patients age 18+ in a rural primary care clinic (P), how does the use of an education pamphlet (I) compared to no pamphlet use (C) affect patient management of hypertension(O) in three months? (T) Body of evidence: Evidence shows that pamphlets, leaflets, or booklets can improve patients’ understanding of hypertension management. Implementation: Implementation of an educational pamphlet that clearly explains both the causes and management strategies for hypertension. Outcomes/evaluation: Patients' understanding of hypertension management and blood pressure significantly improved following the implementation of an educational pamphlet. Impact: The use of the pamphlet was associated with greater patient knowledge of hypertension and improved blood pressure management. Sustainability: The use of pamphlets in primary care for patients with uncontrolled hypertension and sharing this information with other primary care providers and nursing organizations may help disseminate the findings.