Hypertension: Under Recorded and Under Recognised in General Paediatric Outpatient Clinics

Background: In conjunction with the increasing obesity epidemic there are concerns that hypertension is increasing. Many argue that blood pressure measurement should be an essential part of all consultations. Objectives: This study sought to establish whether General Paediatricians were recognising hypertension. Methods: The clinic letters of each patient attending general paediatric outpatient clinics at Tauranga Hospital for the month of March 2013 were reviewed for demographic data, diagnosis, blood pressure recording and BMI. Results: Three hundred and forty two patients were seen. Forty six percent of patients had a blood pressure taken. Sixteen percent had an elevated reading. Thirty nine percent of these patients had a plan to manage the elevated reading recorded in their notes. Forty five percent of patients were thought to have needed a blood pressure and 85% of these received one. Two thirds of patients who were overweight/obese had their blood pressure taken. Conclusions: Hypertension is under recognised by General Paediatricians. Ensuring all children who are at increased risk get a blood pressure measurement should be the first priority.