Effect of Nursing Interventions on the Severity of Orthostatic Hypotension among Older Adults Residing in Assisted Living Facilities

Abstract

Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a predominant insufficiently evaluated and treated problem among older people. In this context, it is important for the gerontological nurses to assess and manage OH to avoid its serious consequences. Objective: Determine the effect of nursing interventions on the severity of orthostatic hypotension among older adults. Settings: Two assisted living facilities affiliated to the Ministry of Social Solidarity, Egypt were selected. Subjects: Forty older adults who were eligible for the study. Tools: Five tools were used: Saint Louis University Mental Status (SLUMS) Examination, Geriatric Depression Scale Short-Form (GDS-SF), Orthostatic Vital Signs Measurement Scale, Older Adults Socio–Demographic and Clinical Data Structured Interview Schedule, and Orthostatic Hypotension Grading Scale. Results: A statistical significant increase in standing blood pressure was found post interventions compared to pre interventions. As well as, a highly significant improvement of OH symptoms among older adults was declared. Conclusion: Nursing interventions resulted in a statistically significant increase in standing blood pressure and improved the OH symptoms among older adults. Recommendations: In-service health education program about OH has to be offered on regular basis to the nurses at the different assisted living facilities.