Abstract: SA-PO0982
Longitudinal Assessment of Hypertension Knowledge Among Internal Medicine Residents: A Quality Improvement Study
Session Information
- Educational Research
October 24, 2026 | Location: Exhibit Hall A, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Educational Research
- 1000 Educational Research
Authors
- Imtiaz, Rabel Gul, LSU Health Shreveport, Shreveport, Louisiana, United States
- Jain, Shubhika, LSU Health Shreveport, Shreveport, Louisiana, United States
- Morisetti, Phani Purushotham, LSU Health Shreveport, Shreveport, Louisiana, United States
- Sachdeva, Bharat, LSU Health Shreveport, Shreveport, Louisiana, United States
- Sulaiman, Karina, LSU Health Shreveport, Shreveport, Louisiana, United States
Background
Hypertension (HTN) is a major modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular and renal disease, requiring accurate diagnosis and guideline-directed management. Internal medicine residents frequently manage HTN, yet knowledge gaps, particularly in resistant hypertension and pharmacologic management persist. This quality improvement (QI) project (2022–2025) assessed HTN knowledge among residents across postgraduate year (PGY) levels using a structured questionnaire to identify gaps, compare performance, and guide targeted educational interventions.
Methods
This single-center QI study included internal medicine residents across all PGY levels. A structured questionnaire assessing HTN diagnosis and management was administered anonymously. Topics included guideline-based diagnosis, pharmacologic therapy, and management of resistant hypertension. Scores were stratified by PGY level to evaluate trends and identify deficiencies. Targeted educational interventions were implemented based on gaps, with follow-up assessments used to evaluate longitudinal trends.
Results
Across 219 responses, the mean score was 6.8/10. Performance improved with seniority (PGY-3 > PGY-2 > PGY-1) shown in Figure 1; however, there was an overall 17% decline in average scores from 2022 to 2025. Key knowledge gaps included selection of antihypertensive therapy in chronic kidney disease (23.3% correct) and evaluation of hypertension and associated comorbidities (46.6% correct).
Conclusion
This study highlights persistent deficiencies in hypertension management among residents, despite observed improvements with advancing levels of training. Longitudinal training enhances knowledge of hypertension management, as evidenced by scores from PGY-1 through PGY-3. Limitations include single center design and use of quiz performance as a measure for determining clinical competence. These findings support the need for focused, longitudinal educational strategies to improve HTN management.
Figure 1:Average Score: PGY vs Survey Year