Self-monitoring blood pressure in patients with hypertension: who self-monitors and why?

Grant, Sabrina (2014). Self-monitoring blood pressure in patients with hypertension: who self-monitors and why? University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Self-monitoring blood pressure (SMBP) has been shown to more accurately estimate true underlying BP but it is unclear how commonly it is practiced in the UK and why patients engage in this behaviour from a psychological perspective. A survey was first sent to primary care patients with hypertension (n=955) in the West Midlands, UK to establish the prevalence of SMBP. Secondly, interviews with respondents (n=16) combined with a review of previous empirical research informed the design of an in-depth questionnaire sent in the final stage of the study (n=236) to confirm the investigative associated factors. A third of the survey population 293/955 (31%) reported SMBP which was predicted by education, self-efficacy and doctors’ health locus of control (DHLOC) (p<0.01). Age and negative outcome expectations about SMBP potentially moderated this relationship. A lack of available guidelines and poor communication with the General Practitioner (GP) about self-monitoring however resulted in a negative perception about whether engaging in SMBP had any real benefit. Self-monitoring was practiced by an appreciable minority in the UK, potentially enabling patients to gain control over managing their own BP. Better education and shared decision making between the patient and the GP might remove negative perceptions about SMBP ensuring its long term practice.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

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