EDUCATIONAL INTERVENTION PROJECT FOR PATIENTS WITH ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION AT THE BARRACAS FAMILY HEALTH UNIT

Abstract

This educational intervention project was developed at the Barracas Family Health Unit in the municipality of Várzea da Roça, Bahia, focusing on patients enrolled in the HIPERDIA program and suffering from systemic arterial hypertension (SAH). Hypertension is a significant public health problem in Brazil and worldwide due to its high prevalence, frequently asymptomatic nature, low adherence to treatment, and strong association with cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and renal complications. In this context, health education emerges as an essential strategy to expand users' knowledge, promote self-care, and reduce morbidity and mortality related to the disease. The proposal was based on a need identified by the Barracas Family Health Strategy team, which observed a large number of hypertensive patients with difficulties in blood pressure control, failures in medication adherence, and a poor understanding of diet, physical activity, and the risks of the disease. The overall objective was to develop an educational intervention plan through a booklet aimed at hypertensive users, with multidisciplinary information, aiming to encourage blood pressure control and expand knowledge about SAH and its management. Methodologically, the study was based on a literature review in the SciELO and MEDLINE databases, encompassing publications between 2013 and 2018, and used Situational Strategic Planning as a framework for constructing the actions. The project had a participatory character, involving professionals from the health team and the community. As a practical action, an educational meeting was held with hypertensive patients at the satellite health post in the Morrinhos community, with lectures conducted by a doctor, nutritionist, and nurse. A field diary was used to record observations, impressions, and reports from the participants. The results showed good receptivity from the population, clarification of previously unspoken doubts, and greater understanding about proper nutrition, continuous use of medication, and the severity of hypertension. The testimonials showed a strengthening of the bond between users and the team, as well as greater motivation for adherence to treatment and participation in future meetings. It is concluded that the intervention was relevant, achieving the proposed objectives and demonstrating that multi-professional educational actions in primary care can improve knowledge, bonding, and care for hypertensive patients.