Protective factors for hypertensive crisis in patients who attended the emergency room at the Basic Hospital of the Ecuadorian Institute

Abstract

Introduction: Hypertensive crisis is a public health problem that physically and psychologically affects the health of patients, who face a series of clinical conditions that put their lives at risk. Objective: To analyze the main protective factors of hypertensive crisis in patients who attended the emergency room at the Basic Hospital of the Ecuadorian Social Security Institute-Esmeraldas during the period November-December 2021. Materials and methods: Study with a quantitative approach of the type described with cross-sectional and a non-experimental design, with a total population of 115 patients aged 30 and over, diagnosed with hypertension and hypertensive crisis and 25 physicians who attend I10 cases in the hospital emergency area. The survey was used as a technique for collecting information and two structured questionnaires as an instrument. The variables studied were sociodemographic characteristics, habits and lifestyle, treatment, comorbidities, associated factors, and protective factors. Results: It was evidenced that the hypertensive crisis prevails in women with 51.30% and in men with 47.83%. In addition, the older adult population is at greater risk with 49.57%. In other considerations, 53.04% of the patients rarely performed physical activity; 48% somewhat comply with medical treatment and 60% have little knowledge about the disease and its prevention. Conclusions: It is essential to change the habits and lifestyle of patients, as well as a greater degree of awareness about this health problem and the seriousness of its complications.