Authors (including presenting author) :
Chow PF(1)(2), Wong Y(1)(2), Leung KH(1)(2), Kwong HK(1)(2) , Law TC(1)(2), Leung SH(1)(2), Li WSV(1)(2), Ko SH(1)(2)
Affiliation :
(1)(2)Department of Family Medicine and Primary Healthcare, Kowloon Central Cluster
Introduction :
Many patients experience anxiety during doctor visits, leading to elevated blood pressure reading in clinical setting. The clinical environment can be more stressful than the comfort of home which affecting BP reading. Regular home blood pressure monitoring provides a more comprehensive view of BP patterns, reflecting typical levels better than clinical reading. HBPM devices allow patients to track their BP conveniently, but the reliability must be validated as we all know that accurate BP measurement is crucial for effective hypertension management. Annual validation services are provided at KCC General Outpatient Clinics to ensure device accuracy.
Objectives :
-Ensure accurate BP reading by using validated devices. -Promote proper measurement technique at home for better BP control. -Encourage HBPM to improve key performance indicators (KPI) of BP control rates in hypertensive patients.
Methodology :
During the validation period of HBPM device from June 6, 2024, to September 30, 2024, a total of 30 hypertensive patients were randomly selected and recruited from Li Po Chun and Robert Black GOPCs. A questionnaire was used to evaluate the frequency of blood pressure measurement, knowledge and awareness of blood pressure monitoring, perceptions of the impact of HBPM, and feedback on the validation service. HBPM device validation process: Patient rest and relax for at least 15 minutes. Nurses (RN) or patient care assistants (PCA) assess patient’s HBPM technique and provide instructions. Patient measures BP using home BP measurement device. RN/PCA measures patient’s BP at the same arm within 30-60 seconds using the clinic’s measurement device. Make sure the patient's HBPM device and clinic BP measurement device have systolic and diastolic pressure differences of 10 mmHg or less. Validate the HBPM device, distribute an Home BP record booklet, and document the model and validation date on in the patient’s handheld. Provide advice on measurement timing and frequency. If the final BP reading differs by more than 10 mmHg between patient’s BP measurement device and the clinic’s BP measurement device, replacing home BP measurement device's battery and recalibrating before the next follow up appointment is recommended. Current reading can serve as a rough reference.
Result & Outcome :
Results: 90% of participants recorded their BP readings regularly using validated HBPM devices. 65% of participants saw a measurable reduction in their average BP levels. 80% of participants reported confidence in using HBPM devices and taking an active role in their health management. 75% of participants provided positive feedback on the validation service. Conclusion: The HBPM device validation initiative at KCC GOPCs successfully improved hypertension management by ensuring accurate home monitoring and promoting proper measurement techniques. Key results showed that 90% of participants regularly used validated devices, 65% achieved measurable BP reductions, and 80% reported increased confidence in self-monitoring. The positive feedback (75%) further confirmed the program’s effectiveness in enhancing patient engagement and BP control. This initiative underscores the importance of validated HBPM in achieving better clinical outcomes and empowering patients in their health management.
