Information technology-based strategies to promote care and self-care in hypertensive patients

Abstract

Arterial hypertension represents one of the main challenges in public health worldwide, due to its high prevalence; in this context, the present research was developed by the need to apply innovative strategies aimed at care and self-care of these patients. Objective: To identify the factors that favor the application of innovative strategies for the care and self-care of people with hypertension. Quantitative, descriptive, non-experimental, cross-sectional methodology, in which 141 people diagnosed with arterial hypertension residents of the center of the canton Jipijapa participated. Actions were designed based on information and communication technologies, such as mobile applications and social networks, promoting health education, autonomous monitoring and the promotion of healthy lifestyles. Results: It was shown that ICT-based strategies significantly improved self-care and management of hypertension. A significant proportion of patients showed high adherence to drug treatment and used technological tools to monitor their blood pressure.
A considerable number of participants expressed that telemedicine facilitated access to health services, enhancing autonomy and disease management. A large proportion of respondents reported high satisfaction with the care received, highlighting the effectiveness of ICT in their care process. Conclusion: technological innovation, together with an educational and humanized approach of nursing staff, constitutes an effective tool to improve patient empowerment and strengthen their role in the management of hypertension.