Hypertension is an
escalating occupational health concern among information technology (IT) professionals,
driven by sedentary behavior, psychosocial stress, and poor lifestyle habits.
Despite evidence supporting nurse-led health promotion, its application within
corporate settings remains limited. This study aimed to design, implement, and
evaluate a nurse-led educational booklet for hypertension prevention among IT
professionals in India, with attention to gender-responsive pedagogy.
Methods: A sequential mixed-method
design was employed. Phase I involved the development of a culturally tailored
hypertension prevention booklet using the Delphi consensus process and Sassen’s
Intervention Mapping Framework. Phase II evaluated its impact through a
quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test design among 240 IT professionals (aged
25–45 years) in Bengaluru and Hyderabad. The intervention group (n = 120)
received the nurse-led booklet program via hybrid workshops and digital
reinforcement, while the control group (n = 120) received standard education
materials. Outcomes assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months included
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) scores, blood pressure (BP), and
behavioral indicators. Focus group discussions provided qualitative insights.
Results: The intervention group
exhibited a significant improvement in mean KAP scores (57.3 ± 6.1 to 79.4 ±
5.8; p < 0.001) compared to the control group (56.8 ± 6.4 to 59.5 ±
6.7; p = 0.09). Systolic and diastolic BP decreased by 9.4 mmHg and 5.6
mmHg respectively (p < 0.001), accompanied by marked improvements in
physical activity and dietary adherence. Thematic analysis revealed that
participants valued the booklet’s clarity, visual reinforcement, and relevance
to occupational stressors. Gender differences emerged, with female participants
demonstrating greater group engagement and males favoring structured feedback
mechanisms.
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