PBL: Hypertension

Aim:

To understand the control of blood pressure and the consequences and treatment of hypertension.

ILOs:

Revise the structure and function of arteries, veins and capillaries
Describe blood pressure and the haemodynamic and neurohumoral factors on which it is dependent
Describe the responses to changes in posture and the mechanisms resulting in postural hypotension in the elderly
Define hypertension and describe its consequences in the individual and its importance in the community
Describe the mechanisms of action of anti-hypertensive therapy and their side effects
Outline the principles of rational prescribing, and the concepts and consequences of poor compliance

Describe the normal structure of blood vessels
Define blood pressure and describe its homeostatic mechanism
Describe the effects of high blood pressure in other body systems and possible symptoms
Discuss hypertension medication, including their action and side effects
Explain how patient adherence to medication can be maintained
Describe pathophysiology of postural hypotension