Abstract

Hypertension remains a leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality in Mississippi. Despite the availability of evidence-based clinical treatment guidelines, rates of uncontrolled and undiagnosed hypertension remain disproportionately high. The purpose of this study is to examine the extent to which nurse practitioners in Mississippi are aware of and incorporate the updated 2025 American Heart Association (AHA) hypertension guidelines and the PREVENT cardiovascular risk stratification tool into clinical practice. A non-experimental, descriptive, quantitative design using survey methodology with convenience sampling was employed. Online scripting via social media platforms was utilized to recruit licensed Mississippi nurse practitioners. Data was collected using a researcher-developed electronic questionnaire distributed via Qualtrics. The survey assessed providers’ knowledge, confidence, and utilization of the updated guidelines and risk calculators for hypertension screening and management. Descriptive and inferential statistics were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The researchers were interested in addressing gaps between evidence-based recommendations and clinical practice. Findings from this study may inform future educational interventions, promote guideline adherence, and improve early detection and management of hypertension. This research seeks to support equitable cardiovascular risk reduction and strengthen the delivery of preventive care among Mississippians.

Degree

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Degree Date

2026

First Advisor

Dr. Renee Hopple

Document Type

Thesis

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