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Recognizing elevated BP in children and adolescents: how are we doing?
Margaret Riley1, Margaret Dobson, Ananda Sen
1Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA. marriley@med.umich.edu
The Journal of Family Practice
|July 6, 2013
Summary
Family medicine providers often miss elevated blood pressure (BP) in children and adolescents, recognizing only 8% of abnormal values. Significant knowledge gaps exist regarding pediatric hypertension diagnosis, necessitating targeted interventions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Medicine
- Cardiovascular Health
- Family Medicine Practice
Background:
- Childhood hypertension incidence is rising.
- Abnormal blood pressure (BP) in pediatric patients may be overlooked by healthcare providers.
- Early recognition and diagnosis are crucial for managing pediatric hypertension.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the recognition rates of abnormal BP values in pediatric patients (ages 3-18) by family medicine providers.
- To explore provider knowledge and comfort levels concerning the diagnosis of hypertension in children.
- To identify disparities in BP recognition among different provider types.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective chart review of pediatric visits in family medicine outpatient clinics was conducted.
- A survey was administered to family medicine providers to assess their knowledge and comfort with pediatric hypertension.
- Statistical analysis was used to compare recognition rates and identify influencing factors.
Main Results:
- Providers recognized only 8% of elevated BP values during pediatric visits.
- Hypertensive range BP values were more likely recognized than pre-hypertensive values (P<.001).
- Resident physicians showed higher recognition rates for abnormal BP values compared to other provider types (P=.002).
- Surveyed providers answered less than half of knowledge-based questions correctly (mean, 45%).
Conclusions:
- Family medicine providers frequently fail to recognize elevated BP in children and adolescents.
- Providers exhibit significant knowledge deficits regarding the definition and diagnosis of pediatric hypertension.
- Interventions are needed to improve the detection and management of hypertension in pediatric populations.
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