Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2020

Document Type

Capstone

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

College Granting Degree

Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Marlene Brennen

Thesis/Dissertation Co-Chair

Julina T. Dorval

Abstract

Hypertension is a major health care challenge. Uncontrolled hypertension is a huge financial burden in the United States. Strict medication adherence and lifestyle modifications such as incorporating a low sodium diet and increasing daily aerobic physical activity have been proven to be effective in managing hypertension. However, uncontrollable hypertension continues to be one of the most leading causes of cardiovascular disease and death worldwide. When compared to other groups, Haitians have a higher disproportionate risk of morbidity and mortality from chronic disease. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to evaluate the effectiveness of physical activity through a walking exercise program and hypertension self-management education on blood pressure in Haitian adults aged 35 to 84 diagnosed with hypertension in the primary care setting. The project was an 8-week online/remote walking exercise program designed to provide bi-weekly hypertension self-management education sessions (moderate-intensity physical activity, low salt diet management, and medication adherence teaching), weekly self-adjusted step goals, and weekly one-on-one physical activity nurse counseling via telephone/video teleconference. The study results showed that participants who were fully engaged in the walking exercise program were able to manage their blood pressure by increasing their physical activity level, adhering to a low sodium diet, and increasing medication adherence.

Extent

64 p.

Identifier

faudnp000003

Format

pdf

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