Original PromptTEACHING RESOURCE eHANDOUT
Understanding Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
HYPERTENSION (HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE)
What is Hypertension?
Hypertension means that the pressure of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries is too high. Over time, high blood pressure can damage the heart, brain, kidneys, and blood vessels. Many people may not know they have hypertension because symptoms are often not noticeable (Heart & Stroke Foundation, 2024).
Common Signs & Symptoms
Hypertension is often call...
This learning resource focuses on hypertension, often referred to as the 'Silent Disease,' due to its lack of obvious symptoms. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of what hypertension is, including its chronic nature and the potential damage it can inflict on the heart and blood vessels over time. Importantly, the resource emphasizes the necessity of monitoring blood pressure as a crucial task for Personal Support Workers (PSWs). It also explores the subtle symptoms of severe hypertension that PSWs might observe and provides intervention scenarios requiring appropriate PSW responses. Additionally, a fall prevention checklist is included, addressing the heightened risk of falls among clients with hypertension. The resource culminates in a challenge task that encourages students to compile a professional observation report based on a specific client case.