EFFECTIVENESS OF ILLUSTRATIVE SESSIONS IN IMPROVING KNOWLEDGE OF NON-AUTOMATED BLOOD PRESSURE MEASUREMENT AMONG UNDERGRADUATES.

Blood pressure quantification is the most commonly conducted clinical protocol by nurses. The general purpose of this investigation is to use an illustrative program as a means to enhance knowledge and skills of manual blood pressure measurement among Federal University Otuoke student nurses. This research aimed to improve Federal University Otuoke student nurses' knowledge and skills in manual blood pressure measurement through an educational program. Using a one-group pre-test and post-test quasi-experimental design, 153 Third year nursing students were purposively sampled. Demographically, participants were primarily young (22.9% aged 16-18, 38.6% aged 19-21, 29.4% aged 22-24, and 9.2% aged 25+), predominantly Christian (89.5%), female (79.7%), and single (97.4%). Initially, students demonstrated below-average knowledge and proficiency in blood pressure measurement. Following the illustrative program, their knowledge and proficiency levels improved significantly. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant difference in both knowledge and self-reported proficiency pre- and post-intervention at 95% confidence interval. The illustrative program was crucial in enhancing student nurses' knowledge and practical skills in blood pressure measurement. Such programs are vital for building a strong foundation in clinical skills, standardizing procedures, and promoting patient-centered care, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and safer healthcare practices. The study emphasizes the importance of continuous training and education to maintain proficiency and ensure blood pressure measurement remains a reliable diagnostic tool.