Reducing the Risk of Hypertension: The Important Role of Nurses in Empowering Clients

Abstract

            Hypertension is a chronic, asymptomatic progressive disease, and a leading cause of many complications. Primary hypertension, also known as idiopathic hypertension, is associated with non-modifiable risk factors and modifiable risk factors. People with risk of hypertension should recognized their own risk, get educated about hypertension for lifestyle modification, using an empowerment-based intervention. Nurses play vital role in empowering individuals by following actions; measuring blood pressure, providing information to clients, educating about hypertension and lifestyle modification guidelines, providing opportunities for clients to share experiences with others, evaluating client’s health behaviors and giving advice. These activities may help clients to be aware of their potential and strengths enhancing self-confidence for sustainable healthy behavioral change.