Effects of a Self-regulation Program on Blood Pressure Control and Self-Care in Patient with Essential Hypertension

Purpose: This study was done to verify the effects of a self-regulation program for management of hypertension. Method: Thirty patients with hypertension registered in a community health center were selected as the experiment group, and control group were patients in another community health center, matched for age and gender. The self-regulation program included daily blood pressure checks, periodic counseling, and health education. A self-check digital device with instructions was provided for self-monitoring of blood pressure, and the participants were interviewed before they took part in the program. Results: The first hypothesis was supported: There will be a greater reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure for patients with hypertension who participate in the self-regulation program compared to patients in the control group. The second hypothesis was also supported: Patients with hypertension who participate in the self-regulation program will perform self-care activities better than those in the control group. Conclusion: The findings indicate that a self-regulation program reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure and improves self-care in patients with hypertension. It is recommended that this self-regulation program be used in community health clinics for management of hypertension and prevention of complicationsope