Yes, people present with high blood pressure because they're nervous, known as "white coat hypertension." But it can be an issue beyond your chair. Have a discussion with your HBP patients.
Have a discussion with your patients about HBP that may go beyond your chair.
Have you noticed many patients with high blood pressure in your chair? There is such a thing as "white coat hypertension," but persistent HBP is certainly an issue. Erika Lauren Serrano likes to double check BP throughout the appointment for those who present with HBP, and discuss the risks with them if the issue persists. As a silent disease, many people are not aware they have HBP.
Of course, oral health is linked to many health issues, including heart attacks and strokes. Erika tries to have a compassionate conversation with her patients so they're aware of the risks. Do you take time to do this?
Listen to find out how she approaches these conversations and how you can integrate this discussion into your exams with those patients who might be at risk.
Erika Lauren Serrano, RDH, is a clinical dental hygienist in Virginia with advanced training in periodontics. Her degree in writing has led her to be a proud content contributor to the health, wellness, and dental fields.
Jackie Sanders, MBA, RDH, has over four decades of continual career development and experience in dentistry. As the chief editor of RDHmagazine, she strives to remain a proactive personality in the continual advancement of the profession. She has been defined as a motivated trendsetter and dependable colleague and is inspired by her true passion of helping others to achieve their personal goals.
