Dear Nurse Bonnie,

I have high blood pressure but I go to see my doctor every two months. Should I still have you check it when you are in my building ? Isn’t every two months enough?

Just Wondering, Mrs. A.G.

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Dear Mrs. A.G.,

Thank you for your question. It has been my experience that the majority of people who come to see me on a regular basis benefit by having their pressure checked between doctor visits. We sometimes uncover high readings. This affords the opportunity to discuss risk factors and do individualized health counseling.

With a few questions, we can uncover the probable cause. Is the elevation due to a dietary indiscretion ( potato chips, bacon, deli meats, kielbasa…)? Has there been a decrease in exercise or a stressful life situation? We will use this time to educate and counsel, introduce stress reduction techniques such as guided imagery and meditation, reinforce the positive, offer information about support groups and offer social service and other referrals.

Sometimes the client is told to contact their physician who will increase or alter their medication. At times, we call from the site for an immediate appointment. On several occasions, we have intervened and avoided potentially life threatening situations such as impending stroke, blood clots, worsening congestive heart failure and colon cancer that was not tested for despite the clients visit to a specialist.

In general, I find that the people who see me regularly tend to maintain their blood pressure at a lower level. Many also enjoy the opportunity to visit with each other as well.