Gerald Trotman BSN, RN
Efficacy of Group Visits for Hypertension Education Purpose: Hypertension (HTN) affects 29% of the adult U.S. population, yet itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s estimated that only 52% of those diagnosed have their blood pressure under control (CDC, 2015). Educational programs may constitute one means of helping patients manage their hypertension. The purpose of this project was to examine the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s understanding of hypertension and evaluate the benefit of group hypertension education. Method: Participants with new onset hypertension were recruited from physician offices in the Florida Panhandle and given an educational program followed by a post educational assessment. Pre-educational mean arterial blood pressures (MAP) and body weight were obtained and compared with 1-month post educational MAPs and body weights. Paired t-tests were used to analyze the results. Results: The pre-educational average MAP (N=18) was 100, (SD=5.3). Post-educational mean MAP (N=18) was 95 (SD=4.4). The average MAP change from the first to last reading was 4.9 (SD= 5.6). Overall reduction in MAP was statistically significant, (p= 0.001). To assess the learning benefit of group education, a pre-educational and post-educational test was given. Mean pre-test score was 89.2 (SD= 6.2). The mean post-test score was 100 (SD= 0). Mean changes in test scores were -10.8 (SD= 62). The statistical significance of the pre and post-test were analyzed using a t-test with significance being (p < 0.05). Average change in scores was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Discussion: A positive educational experience was verified through pre and post-tests. Post-educational blood pressure readings indicate positive blood pressure control. Conclusion: Statistically significant increases in knowledge and improvement in MAP over a 1-month post educational period were seen. Results suggest that group education may be effective for blood pressure control and maintenance.
Major Professor: Laurie Grubbs, PhD, ARNP
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