Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis of Hypertension

This foundational clinical topic focuses on the systematic approach to assessing patients with suspected hypertension, a critical skill for all Zambian medical, nursing, and clinical officer students. You will learn accurate blood pressure measurement techniques using both manual and automated devices, proper patient positioning, and identification of factors that can lead to inaccurate readings. The content covers comprehensive history-taking including family history, lifestyle factors, symptoms of target organ damage, and medication review. Physical examination focuses on identifying signs of secondary hypertension (e.g., abdominal bruits, delayed femoral pulses) and complications (e.g., retinal changes, cardiac findings). Diagnostic algorithms for differentiating essential from secondary hypertension are explored, along with appropriate initial investigations including urinalysis, serum electrolytes, lipid profile, ECG, and echocardiography. For Zambian healthcare trainees, mastering these assessment skills is essential for early detection, appropriate classification, and prevention of hypertension-related complications in communities where the disease burden is high. This knowledge prepares you for clinical rotations, professional licensing exams, and primary care practice where hypertension is one of the most common chronic conditions encountered.