Translation and validation of the Greek version of the hypertension knowledge-level scale.
OBJECTIVE
To translate and validate a Greek version of the Hypertension Knowledge-Level Scale.


BACKGROUND
The major barrier in the management of hypertension is the lack of adherence to medications and lifestyle adjustments. Patients' knowledge of the nature of hypertension and cardiovascular risk factors is a significant factor affecting individuals' adherence. However, few instruments have been developed to assess patients' knowledge level and no one has been translated into Greek.


METHODS
This study used a case control study design.


METHODS
Data collection for this research occurred between February 7, 2013 and March 10, 2013. The sample included both hypertensives and non-hypertensives. Participants simultaneously completed the version of the Hypertension Knowledge-Level Scale. A total of 68 individuals completed the questionnaire.


RESULTS
Coefficient alpha was 0·66 for hypertensives and 0·79 for non-hypertensives. The difference for the mean scores in the entire scale between the two samples was statistically significant. In addition, significant differences were observed in many sub-dimensions and no correlation was found between level, knowledge and age, gender and education level.


CONCLUSIONS
Findings provide support for the validity of the Greek version of the Hypertension Knowledge-Level Scale.


CONCLUSIONS
The translation and validation of an instrument evaluating the level of knowledge of hypertension contribute to assessing the provided educational intervention. Low knowledge level should lead to the development of new methods of education, therefore nurses will have the opportunity to amplify their role in patients' education and develop relationships based on honesty and respect.
Cardiac Surgery Intensive Care Unit, Evangelismos General Hospital of Athens, Athens, Greece.
Anastasia A
AA
Chatziefstratiou
Cardiac Surgery Intensive Care Unit, Evangelismos General Hospital of Athens, Athens, Greece.
Konstantinos
K
Giakoumidakis
Faculty of Nursing, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
Nikolaos V
NV
Fotos
Faculty of Nursing, University of Athens, ICU at Agioi Anargyroi General Hospital, Nea Kifisia, Athens, Greece.
George
G
Baltopoulos
Faculty of Nursing, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
Hero
H
Brokalaki-Pananoudaki
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D005260:Female; D006115:Greece; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011594:Psychometrics; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012307:Risk Factors; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014177:Translations
adherence; hypertension; instrument development; knowledge