How do patients experience and use home blood pressure monitoring? A qualitative analysis with UTAUT 2

Abstract

Background: hypertension is an important cardiovascular risk factor with potentially harmfulconsequences. home blood pressure monitoring is a promising method for following the effectof hypertension treatment. the use of technology-enabled care and increased patient involvementmight contribute to more effective treatment methods. however, more knowledge is needed toexplain the motivations and consequences of patients engaging in what has been called ‘do-it-yourself healthcare’.Aim: this study aimed to investigate patients’ experiences of home blood pressure monitoringthrough the theoretical frame of the Unified theory of acceptance and Use of technology(UtaUt 2). Methods: the study had a qualitative design, with focus group interviews using theweb-based platform Zoom. the data were analysed using qualitative deductive content analysis,inspired by Graneheim and lundman.Results: the results are presented using the seven theoretical constructs of UtaUt 2: Performanceexpectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, Facilitating conditions, hedonistic Motivation,Price Value and habit. We found one overarching theme ‒ ‘it’s all about the feeling of security’.the patients were influenced by relatives or healthcare personnel and experienced the homemonitoring process as being easy to conduct. the patients emphasised that the quality of theblood pressure monitor was more important than the price. Patients reported home monitoringof blood pressure as a feasible method to follow-up care of their hypertension.Discussion: this study indicates that among motivated patients, home blood pressuremeasurement entails minimal effort, increases security, and leads to better communication aboutblood pressure between healthcare personnel and patients.