The Pressure is on : Exploring nurses´ experiences of working with hypertension prevention in Vietnam

Abstract: Background: Hypertension is the biggest contributor to the global burden of disease, and has a big impact on low-to middle-income countries. Nurses are important actors in disease prevention and health promotion which is typically used to prevent hypertension. Vietnam is a middle-income country with elaborate hypertension problems. Aim: The aim of this study is to explore nurses´ experiences of working with hypertension (HT) prevention in Vietnam.  Method: This is a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and content analysis. Result: Challenges, methods and perceptions from the experiences of working as a nurse with HT prevention were identified. Lack of equipment, methods and funds, and to help the patient change bad habits were the main challenges. Conclusion: Nurses in Vietnam experience many challenges in their work to prevent HT. The challenges include lack of education, resources and difficulties to help people change behaviour. Few opportunities were perceived by the nurses. Further research is needed to explore the situation of nurses working with HT prevention, and what needs to be done on different levels to facilitate their work.