III.

Exercises:

1. Discuss strategies for finding reliable appropriate online and computer program
resources for researching health challenges and pathophysiology concepts.

To ensure a reliable and accurate data, begin researching specific information by consulting
various reputable sources and websites. Specific sites that has an established health
organization, government agencies, and reputable educational institutions and universities.
The World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),
and other academic institutions are all reliable sources for current and trustworthy
information. In addition, also consider the background and credibility of the specific author
when evaluating. Seek out content written by people who are experts in that specific field,
with relevant and credible academic backgrounds or experience. Lastly, check the date of
publication is also crucial to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant.

2. Research a specific health challenge. Look for a minimum of three reliable

resources related to your topic.

My speicific health challenge is about HYPERTENSION.

3. Make an annotated bibliography of your three chosen resources and share them with
the class. Keep these key concepts in mind when constructing an annotated
bibliography

A.

Yildiz, M., Oktay, A. A., Stewart, M. H., Milani, R. V., Ventura, H. O., & Lavie, C. J.. (2019,
November 21). Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and Hypertension - ScienceDirect.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pcad.2019.11.009

This article summarizes research data on left ventricular geometric changes associated with
hypertension. It states that diagnosis of abnormal left ventricular geometry can be done via
ECG, 2D and 3D echocardiography, speckle tracking echocardiography, or cardiac MRI.
Epidemiological data covers prevalence variation amongst studies and populations (ranging
from 41-62% concentric remodeling). Pathophysiological mechanisms involve
cardiomyocyte stretch, intracellular signaling cascades, and protein synthesis. Prognostic
data links left ventricular hypertrophy to increased cardiovascular morbidity/mortality,
stroke, heart failure, cognitive impairment and all-cause mortality (hazard ratios provided).
Treatment data shows antihypertensives can prevent and regress geometric changes,
lowering morbidity and mortality by 35-60% over 8-10 years. Strengths are the
comprehensive evidenced-based data on epidemiology, mechanisms and outcomes.
Limitations are the lack of sample sizes and details on the referenced studies. However, this
provides valuable summarized quantitative data on an important prognostic indicator of
hypertension complications.
B.

Laurent, S., & Boutouyrie, P. (2020, September 17). Arterial Stiffness and Hypertension in
the Elderly. Frontiers. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcvm.2020.544302

This article provides a comprehensive overview of research related to arterial stiffness and
hypertension in elderly populations. It summarizes the cellular mechanisms,
pathophysiological consequences, assessment methodologies, epidemiological determinants,
pharmacology, and clinical implications of arterial stiffening. The paper discusses how age-
related large artery stiffening leads to exaggerated pulse pressure and wave reflections that
damage target organs and raise cardiovascular risk. Noninvasive measurements of regional
pulse wave velocity and central blood pressure are highlighted as clinically useful for
prediction of events and early vascular aging. Particular emphasis is given to the predictive
value of arterial stiffness independent of blood pressure. Strengths include the focus on
elderly hypertensive patients and thorough coverage of the potential utility for screening,
diagnosis, prognosis, and evaluating therapeutic responses in this group. Limitations relate
primarily to the specificity for elderly populations, reduced discussion of lifestyle
modification approaches, and need for updates as ongoing studies provide additional
evidence. As a comprehensive overview bridging pathophysiologic mechanisms to clinical
assessment and management considerations, this is a valuable contribution for
geriatricians, cardiologists, hypertension specialists, and researchers.

C.

Yildiz, M., Esenboğa, K., & Oktay, A. A. (2020, July). Hypertension and diabetes mellitus:
highlights of a complex relationship.
https://journals.lww.com/co-cardiology/abstract/2020/07000/hypertension_and_diabetes_
mellitus__highlights_of.15.aspx

This report data on the epidemiology and mechanisms underlying hypertension (HTN) and
diabetes mellitus. As per US estimates, diabetes mellitus affects ~10% of adults. The
prevalence of coexisting HTN and diabetes ranges from 66-76%, based on differing
guideline diagnostic thresholds for HTN. Pathophysiological studies indicate development of
both conditions parallels over time, with shared genetic and mechanistic links between the
two. Prognostic data highlights synergetic risks for micro- and macrovascular complications,
including heightened cardiovascular and mortality risks. Data on therapeutic strategies
confirms antihypertensive agents and antidiabetics can provide favorable reductions in blood
pressure (BP) and cardiovascular risks. Strengths are inclusion of specific prevalence,
mechanistic and prognostic data alongside confirmatory treatment evidence. Limitations
include lack of full source details and specifics on the actual studies behind reported data.
Nonetheless, the clinical and research insights summarized hold important value for experts
studying the intersection of HTN and diabetes.
IV. Reflection

1. How can the internet augment the course materials to facilitate your grasp of
pathophysiological concepts?

By incorporating online resources into our course materials, students can better understand
the topic by gaining access to a wide range of perspectives, multimedia elements such as
videos and animations. Participation in interactive platforms, forums, or online quizzes can
promote active and attentive learning, reinforcing concepts related to pathophysiology and
promoting a more profound understanding through different learning methods.

2. How can you translate pathophysiology and health challenge theory into appropriate
terms for your clients?

When using complex concepts and ideas to clients, it's essential to strike a balance between
simpe and accurate. Using analogies, metaphors, and relatable examples can effectively
bridge the gap between technical terms and everyday language. To enhance understanding,
incorporating visual aids like diagrams or infographics can be especially helpful.
Furthermore, empowering clients to access trustworthy information through patient-friendly
resources or reputable health websites can also be valuable.

3. Do you feel comfortable referring internet content to your clients? Why?

It honestly depends on the reliability and credibility of the sources. It is important to verify
the accuracy of information and ensure it aligns with current medical knowledge.
Additionally, assessing the reputation of the website or platform is crucial in making an
informed decision. If the sources are deemed reliable, sharing internet resources can
empower clients by providing supplementary information and enhancing their understanding
of pathophysiological concepts.

4. Do you see room for improvement in available resources, for visual appeal and to aid
memorization? Explain.

Absolutely! We definitely have opportunities to enhance the visual appeal and memory aids
in the resources we have. By incorporating more visually stimulating materials like
interactive diagrams, mnemonic tools, and educational games, we can elevate the learning
experience. Furthermore, introducing multimedia elements and adaptive technology can
cater to various learning styles, making the study of pathophysiology more accessible and
captivating for a wider range of learners.