Distance Learning Support of Hypertension Self-Management

Abstract

Distance learning has the potential to aide those in remote communities who have infrequent contact with traditional health services. This study used videoconferencing to deliver educational and support interventions to rural hypertensive adults who received care at an outpatient clinic in the Central Valley of California to develop understanding of high blood pressure management. Based on recommendations from the American Heart Association, topics of discussion included daily salt intake, dietary modifications, exercise frequency, alcohol limitations, tobacco cessation, and the importance of medication adherence. Hypertension complications were also reviewed. The measure employed to assess blood pressure management behaviors was the Likert-based H-SCALE. Analysis of the data was based on comparisons between pre and post-intervention hypertension management behaviors. Data showed significant hypertension self-management behavior improvement among subjects as a result of the distance learning intervention. The positive outcomes of the study provide a foundation for distance learning health education programs in rural communities. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved)