Impact of Advanced Practical Nursing Intervention Versus Usual Care on Hypertension Control
This study in France investigates if a new type of healthcare professional, called an Advanced Practice Nurse (APN), can help people with high blood pressure (hypertension) manage their condition more effectively. High blood pressure is very common and a major cause of heart problems, but many people find it hard to keep their blood pressure under control, often because they don't stick to their medication. APNs are highly skilled nurses who can do many tasks usually done by doctors. This research aims to see if patients who meet with an APN have better blood pressure control compared to those receiving standard care. It's hoped that APNs can help patients understand their treatment better and feel more involved in their own care.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research study is looking at ways to help people in France who have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. High blood pressure is a very common health issue, not just in France but all over the world. It's a big risk factor for serious heart problems and strokes. Unfortunately, about half of the people being treated for high blood pressure still have levels that are too high, and many don't take their medication regularly as prescribed. Not taking medication as advised is a major reason why blood pressure isn't controlled.
Now, a new kind of nurse has been introduced in the French healthcare system. These are called Advanced Practice Nurses, or APNs. They have special, in-depth training and can do many tasks that are usually handled by doctors, bridging the gap between standard nursing and medical care. This study wants to find out if having these APNs involved in a person's care can lead to better control of their blood pressure.
The main idea behind this study is that if you have an APN involved in your care, perhaps you'll understand your condition and treatment better, feel more supported, and as a result, your blood pressure will improve. The study takes place in a hospital in Paris, France, and will compare patients who see an APN with those who receive the usual care for high blood pressure.
Key takeaways
- The study aims to improve high blood pressure control in France.
- It tests if Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) can help patients better.
- APNs are specially trained nurses who can provide more in-depth care.
- Participants will either receive usual care or usual care plus APN support.
- The goal is to see if APNs can improve blood pressure management and patient involvement.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a common type of high blood pressure called "essential hypertension." You must also be receiving your high blood pressure care at the Hôtel-Dieu University Hospital in Paris, France. Finally, you need to be able to understand the study information and give your written permission to join.
There are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you've already seen an Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) for your blood pressure before the study starts, you can't participate. You also can't join if you are pregnant, or if you are under certain legal arrangements where someone else manages your affairs.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you at least 18 years old?
- Do you have a type of high blood pressure called 'essential hypertension'?
- Are you being treated for high blood pressure at Hôtel-Dieu University Hospital in Paris, France?
- Have you NOT seen an Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) for your blood pressure before?
- Are you NOT pregnant?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you'll first have an appointment at the hospital. During this visit, you'll learn more about the study and, if you agree, you'll sign a consent form. After this, a computer will randomly place you into one of two groups.
One group will receive 'usual care.' This means you'll have your hospital visit and then generally see a doctor for a follow-up appointment sometime between 2 to 12 months later. The other group, the 'intervention group,' will also have their hospital visit, but they will additionally meet with an Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) between 1 to 6 months after their hospital visit, before their doctor's follow-up. All your upcoming appointments will be scheduled for you at the end of your initial hospital visit. The study is primarily looking at how your blood pressure changes over time depending on which group you're in.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Diagnosis and Therapeutic Center, Hôtel-Dieu HospitalVerified postcodeParis, France
Common questions
What is an Advanced Practice Nurse (APN)?
An APN is a highly trained nurse who can perform many tasks usually done by doctors, like assessing patients and managing treatments for common conditions.
Why is this study important for people with high blood pressure?
Many people struggle to control their high blood pressure, which can lead to serious health problems. This study explores a new way to help people manage their condition better.
Will I have to take new strong medicines?
No, this study is about how care is given, not about testing new medications. You will continue with your existing blood pressure treatment as prescribed by your doctor.
How long will I be in the study?
The study involves an initial hospital visit, and then follow-up appointments with either a doctor only, or an APN and then a doctor, within about 1 to 12 months.
Can I choose which group I am in?
No, participants are randomly put into either the 'usual care' group or the 'APN intervention' group, similar to flipping a coin. This helps make the study fair.
How to find out more
Juliette VAY-DEMOUY, MSc, PhD student
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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