Improving hypertension management in Egyptian women through standardised nurse training on blood pressure measurement

Abstract Background According to the Global Burden of Disease study and the Lancet Women and Cardiovascular Disease Commission, Egypt has one of the highest rates of years of life lost among women due to modifiable risk factors, particularly hypertension. A nurse-led BP management programme could enhance hypertension control and reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease among Egyptian women. Purpose The study assessed the current practices for BP measurement by nurses in Egypt. This was followed by structured BP measurement training, hypothesizing that enhanced knowledge and adherence to international guidelines would lead to more accurate BP readings in Egyptian women. Methods A cross-sectional initial survey was conducted among 158 experienced public hospital nurses to assess their BP measurement knowledge, training history, and adherence to international guidelines. The assessment included written &visual questionnaires partly adapted from the ACC materials. This was followed by a training programme developed to address these gaps in knowledge, including BP standards, common measurement errors, proper device use, and best practices.. The training emphasized evidence-based techniques to enhance diagnostic accuracy. Results The survey results revealed significant knowledge gaps and non-compliance with international BP measurement protocols. Approximately 70% of nurses had never received formal BP training after graduating, and 63% failed to follow recommended techniques. Among the errors encountered were incorrect cuff size selection (51%), measuring BP over clothing (87%), and lack of arm support (54%). Additionally, 57% were unaware of the impact of talking during measurement, 42% did not recognize the effect of a full bladder on BP readings, and 76% used mercury sphygmomanometers. Following a two-hour pilot training session, nurses demonstrated a rapid improvement in knowledge and adherence to proper BP measurement techniques. Conclusion This study highlights the urgent need for standardized BP measurement training and equipment for nurses to improve hypertension management. The pilot session demonstrated immediate knowledge improvement, reinforcing the value of structured, hands-on training. Accurate BP measurement in conservative women by female nurses is a critical yet feasible intervention for any hypertension control programme in Egypt. Beyond accurate measurement, providing nurses with validated devices and training in lifestyle counselling and medication adherence could further enhance hypertension management.GBD CVD Women YLLEgypt Women