Task-Shifting to Nurses for Hypertension Control in Rural Sub-Saharan Africa: A Narrative Review of Effectiveness and...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Health Systems Research

Background:

• Hypertension care in rural sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) faces challenges due to limited resources and access.
• Rising cardiovascular disease necessitates innovative care delivery models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evidence on task-shifting hypertension management to nurses in rural SSA.
• To identify the efficacy, implementation challenges, and facilitators of nurse-led hypertension care.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of studies on task-shifted and nurse-led hypertension care in rural SSA.
• Searched major databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase) for relevant literature.
• Synthesized findings on patient outcomes and implementation factors.

Main Results:

• Nurse-led interventions improved medication adherence, blood pressure control, and continuity of care.
• Common elements included protocol-driven management, patient education, and mobile health support.
• Implementation barriers included drug stockouts, scope-of-practice limits, and inadequate training.

Conclusions:

• Task-shifting hypertension care to nurses in rural SSA is feasible and effective when supported.
• Addressing health system bottlenecks, training, and regulatory alignment is essential for success.
• Optimizing nurse-led care can significantly improve hypertension outcomes in underserved areas.