NURSING PRACTICE IN PROMOTING ADHERENCE TO HYPERTENSION TREATMENT IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze the role of nursing in addressing difficulties in adherence to hypertension treatment in Primary Health Care. This is a qualitative study using an integrative literature review design. Data collection was conducted through systematic searches in scientific databases available online, namely the Virtual Health Library (BVS), SciELO, PubMed, and BDENF. The inclusion criteria comprised studies addressing the topic, published within the last five years, in English, Portuguese, or Spanish, from any part of the world, with full-text availability. Health Sciences Descriptors (DeCS/MeSH) were used to conduct the searches. Following the review, it became evident that nursing plays a fundamental role in promoting adherence to hypertension treatment in Primary Health Care, particularly through health education, continuous follow-up, encouragement of self-care, clinical monitoring, and the establishment of a therapeutic relationship with patients. Educational, behavioral, and digital interventions can contribute to reducing blood pressure, improving adherence to pharmacological treatment, and increasing patients' involvement in their own care. Furthermore, digital technologies can complement healthcare by improving communication and follow-up; however, they do not replace professional care.