CorE Module

Hypertension

Introduction

Hypertension is not commonly a patient's presenting complaint to hospital and for this reason it can easily be overlooked or not investigated further whilst an inpatient. The initial part of this tutorial will cover physiology and pathophysiology behind hypertension which is quite complex but important to appreciate its management.

Content Contributors:

Author: Dr Jack O’Halloran

CONTENT APPROVAL: Dr Viduranga Wijeratne, Dr John Mooney
EDITOR: Dr Sahani Jayawardane

Version History Version
Version 1 – April 2021

  • It requires 1 hour preparation.

  • It can be taught in 1.5 hours


Teaching approach

As with all modules, familiarise yourself with the NPMT principles.

session learning objectives:

  • To understand the basic physiology behind maintaining blood pressure and the pathophysiology of hypertension

  • To appreciate the degree of end organ damage and associated morbidity and mortality caused by uncontrolled hypertension

  • To understand the risk factors that predispose a patient to developing primary hypertension

  • To appreciate the broad differential diagnoses that may lead to secondary hypertension

  • To demonstrate a targeted history taking and examination process for initial assessment of a hypertensive patient

  • To develop an approach to triaging hypertensive emergencies and cases that may require urgent management or intervention

  • To identify key investigations that are important when working up newly discovered hypertension and to rule out secondary causes

  • To understand important non-pharmacological measures and develop an early comprehension of pharmacological measures for management of hypertension, as well as criteria for initiating treatment with pharmacological agents and blood pressure targets based on guidelines

Tips & Tricks on running an effective session:

  • Physiology and pathophysiology should be reviewed prior to students attending the tutorial so that this section can be skimmed and more time dedicated to history, examination and management

  • Please provide students with handout included below

  • Keep the lesson as interactive as possible especially on the section of history taking

  • Try to use visual aids such as the diagram including in the resource when explaining action of antihypertensives

  • This resource is quite comprehensive but different aspects of the content may be explained in more detail depending on students’ knowledge gaps and interests

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