Novel education device to augment hypertension education

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this project is to assess the effectiveness of a blood pressure education device in instructing individuals on high blood pressure and its impact on health. Methods: In collaboration with local high school students, American Pharmacists Association‐Academy of Student Pharmacists (APhA‐ASP) students are utilizing a novel education device for participants at health screenings conducted by APhA‐ASP. This device correlates with the readings of sphygmomanometers and visually illustrates how medication adherence alleviates the physical stress of high blood pressure. A hand pump is used to propel liquid through either a restricted or nonrestricted path using plastic tubing. When diverting the fluid through the nonrestricted tubing, participants visually experience the sensation of pressure placed on a heart following medication adherence, which contrasts with the experience of pumping through the restricted pathway; this is analogous to how the heart struggles when patients are nonadherent. Screenings will take place at a variety of public locations, including churches, pharmacies, and fairs. Participants at health screenings will be randomized to receive verbal education about high blood pressure or verbal education along with use of the device. An 11‐item survey will be used to assess participants' knowledge of and attitudes regarding their ability to manage hypertension. Participants will be asked to complete the survey prior to and after the education and screening process. A 4‐week follow‐up will be administered by telephone. Descriptive statistics will be performed. Repeated measures ANOVA will be conducted to assess changes in participants' knowledge and attitudes over the three data points. Results: The research is in progress with no results to report to date. Data will be collected at APhA‐ASP health screenings in the fall and spring semesters.