Date of Award

Summer 2021

Document Type

Final DNP Paper

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

Faculty Chair

Dr. Laura Walker

Preceptor

Dr. Benjamin Barlow

Abstract

Background: Hypertension, being a very prominent disease, is a common problem found during urgent care visits. By beginning in the urgent care setting, hypertension management can be started early; thereby preventing complications from uncontrolled hypertension.

Purpose: This DNP project aimed to improve patient knowledge of hypertension and overall blood pressure readings by providing one-to-one provider-patient education.

Design Method: This DNP quality improvement project was a pre- and post-test design using quantitative data. The goal was to access if there was a change in patient education pre, post, and three months follow-up along with a change in blood pressure.

Results: This DNP project demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in both hypertension knowledge and blood pressure measurements.

Conclusion: Urgent care centers frequently observe individuals with no primary care providers and undiagnosed hypertension. More structured one-to-one provider-patient education along with handouts were needed to help decrease and manage hypertension.

Implications for Nursing: Education beginning in the urgent care setting for individuals without a primary care provider and meeting criteria for hypertension can result in a positive outcome for patients.

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