Date on Paper

7-2020

Document Type

Doctoral Paper

Degree Name

D.N.P.

Department

Nursing

Committee Chair

Hardin-Fanning, Frances

Committee Member

Washington, Angela

Author's Keywords

Healthcare providers; blood pressure; knowledge; self-efficacy; patient care; humans

Abstract

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) and American Heart Association (AHA) revealed common errors made by healthcare professionals when measuring blood pressure (BP) in adult inpatients. These errors include using incorrectly sized cuffs, improper cuff placement, and inappropriate patient positioning. Inconsistent cuff sizes and position lead to underestimated and overestimated results, directly impacting patient care and outcomes. Additionally, the ACC/AHA identified patient position and talking during assessments as factors that directly impact the accuracy of the results. At Norton Healthcare facilities, a majority of BPs are obtained by patient care associates (PCAs). The purpose of this quality improvement project was to implement an educational program into the existing PCA training. The focus was on the recommended techniques for measuring BP with automatic devices. The specific aims included (1) ≥ 70% participants will have ≥ 20% increase in knowledge scores from baseline, (2) self-efficacy scores (confidence in ability to obtain BP based on recommendations) will be ≥ 75% (on a 0-100 scale) in ≥ 80% of participants and (3) modifiable barriers to implementation will be identified. These aims will improve patient outcomes and hypertension (HTN) management with more targeted detection. An educational program was delivered to PCAs via an electronic learning module at the Norton Learning Institute. Outcomes included knowledge from pre and post education and a Likert-type survey measuring self-efficacy. Improving knowledge and self-efficacy of the recommended techniques for obtaining BP ensures accuracy and more appropriate treatment for patients.

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