Browsing by Author "Veronica Kagasa"

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    Knowledge and Practice of Nurses Towards Early Detection of Hypertension in Out-Patient Departments of selected Health Center IVs in Central Uganda
    (Uganda Christian University, 2025-07-31) Veronica Kagasa
    Background: Hypertension is a major contributor to severe health complications, including heart attacks, kidney damage, and strokes. Globally, 46% of adults are unaware of their condition, reflecting a significant gap in early detection. In Uganda, inadequate training and limited knowledge among nurses in outpatient departments (OPDs) further exacerbate the burden of hypertension-related complications. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practices of nurses in the OPDs of HCIVs in Central Uganda. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative descriptive study was employed to assess the knowledge and practices of nurses in the OPDs of HCIVs in Central Uganda. Census Sampling was used to include 53 nurses. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed with SPSS (Version 23). Results: Most nurses (64.2%) demonstrated high knowledge towards early detection of Hypertension. The nurses had good practices like routine blood pressure screenings, lifestyle counseling, and monitoring patients' blood pressure. However, significant gaps were observed, with 58.49% of nurses exhibiting suboptimal practices in critical areas such as blood pressure measurement and patient counselling. Conclusion: There is need for ongoing educational programs to enhance nurses’ knowledge of hypertension detection. They require attending practical training in calibrating blood pressure devices. Government should increase resources for maintaining and calibrating equipment to ensure effective and early detection of Hypertension.