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226 Staff Knowledge of Orthostatic Hypotension


 
 
 The prevalence of orthostatic hypotension increases with age(1). The aim of this audit was to assess healthcare provider’s knowledge of identifying and measuring orthostatic hypotension (OH) in the acute setting. Early identification and management of OH is an important step to prevent adverse outcomes and improve patient’s overall functional performance.
 
 
 
 Fifty-one questionnaires were distributed to a random selection of non-consultant doctors and nurses in our hospital. The questionnaires included questions regarding basic knowledge of OH and its measurement. Questions were based on international guidelines on the appropriate measurement and assessment of OH(1). An education session was then offered to junior doctors and nurses, and subsequently carried out by a senior nurse. Staff were educated on OH and how to correctly assess it. Doctors and nurses were subsequently reassessed using the same questionnaire.
 
 
 
 Initial results showed that many of the respondents were interns (37%) and nurses (35%). 94% of respondents had never received formal training in the evaluation of OH. 51% knew that a patient should lie supine for 5 minutes prior to initial BP assessment. 61% knew to take the BP at 1-minute post standing, and 45% knew that the BP should again be taken at 3 minutes. 71% knew to take the pulse alongside the BP checks. The education sessions and repeat audit are ongoing.
 
 
 
 Many of the hospital staff who assess for OH have not received specific training on how to evaluate and diagnose OH. It is our aim to educate front line staff as to the importance of looking for OH and how to diagnose it.
