Telehealth with remote blood pressure monitoring for postpartum hypertension: A prospective single-cohort feasibility study

Abstract

Objective: Investigate feasibility of telehealth with remote blood pressure monitoring for management of hypertension in postpartum women at risk of severe hypertension after hospital discharge.

Methods: In a single-center, prospective single-cohort feasibility study, women with hypertension in pregnancy participated in a postpartum telehealth intervention for blood pressure management after discharge. The primary feasibility outcome measures were recruitment and retention through 6 weeks postpartum. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of severe postpartum hypertension and/or need for blood pressure treatment after discharge, participant satisfaction, and 6-week hospital readmission. Participants received a tablet and equipment to transmit vital signs to a central monitoring site daily. Participants participated in telehealth or telephone visits with a nurse at 48 h and as needed.

Results: Among 1413 deliveries 263 (19%) women had hypertension in pregnancy and 55/124 (47%) of women approached were consented. The retention rate was 95%. Among study participants, the incidence of severe hypertension after discharge was 9 (16%). 29 (53%) of participants required treatment due to exacerbations in blood pressure after discharge, in which 9(16%) were severe. There were no hospital readmissions. Overall 39 (86%) participants were satisfied with the remote monitoring.

Conclusions: Feasibility and participant satisfaction were demonstrated. The incidence of severe hypertension and need for blood pressure treatment after discharge and during 6 weeks postpartum was 16% and 53%. Our results indicate telehealth is a promising strategy for postpartum hypertension management to decrease maternal morbidity and hospital readmission.

Keywords: Hospital readmission; Hypertension; Pregnancy; Telehealth.