According to the CDC, nearly half of the adult population of the United States has high blood pressure (HBP). Just as concerning, 1 in 3 U.S. adults aren’t even aware of it. With numbers like these, just imagine how many staff are affected by high blood pressure within a single business. So how can employers help? The answer is to administer consistent blood pressure screenings. Read on to discover the dangers of high blood pressure and how a blood pressure screening can improve employee health.
Discover how to Staff a Nurse and Save – Download Our Flyer!
The “Silent Killer” Lurking Among Your Workplace
High Blood Pressure—also known as hypertension—is a dangerous and even deadly problem. HBP creates a greater risk of heart disease and stroke, the leading causes of death in the United States. Uncontrolled hypertension can also lead to other complications including aneurysms, kidney, eye problems, and even dementia. So how can so many people be unaware they have something with so many associated risks? As Connie Bryan, Registered Nurse and OnSite Health CEO, explains, high blood pressure is a “silent killer.”
In the video Connie states, once someone discovers they have high blood pressure, it’s crucial they lower it. The first hurdle, however, is identifying the problem. Employers can help initiate this process by implementing simple and consistent blood pressure screenings for their staff. All it takes is a gauge, a blood pressure cuff, and a stethoscope.
Blood Pressure Screenings Do More Than Identify Employees with HBP
Recognizing employees with hypertension is just the first step of a workplace blood pressure screening. Once a team member is made aware of their HBP, steps can be taken to address the matter. Our experienced nurses can assess the situation and help determine what lifestyle factors may be playing a part in high blood pressure. Recommendations can then be made to facilitate the process of managing the issue, leading the employee in question to be able to take the steps necessary to lower their blood pressure and improve their health.
Another benefit of blood pressure screenings is that they help with preventative measures as well. If an OnSite Health nurse determines that workplace factors contribute to employee hypertension, employers can restructure their health program and practices to support a healthier lifestyle that will help reduce the risk of strokes, heart disease, and heart attacks. Not only does this aid staff already affected by hypertension by making it easier to manage their health within the workplace, but employees throughout the entire organization can see improvements to their blood pressure levels by participating in these health programs as well.
Additionally, it’s important to remember that physical and mental health are often linked. According to an article from the International Journal of Mental Health Systems, those suffering from hypertension may have an increased risk of experiencing anxiety and depression. Thus, those who receive treatment for hypertension after blood pressure screenings may see a positive outcome on their mental and emotional health too.
Lead Your Employees to Healthier Living
Are you ready for a healthier workforce? Take full advantage of blood pressure screenings by utilizing an OnSite Health nurse. With experience and care, our team can offer the education and motivation your staff needs to better their health. Interested in learning more about employee health? Click here to discover how investing in employee health benefits the entire company.
