Date of Conferral
11-25-2025
Date of Award
November 2025
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Nursing
Advisor
Leslie Hussey
Abstract
Hypertension (HTN) is associated with significant health complications, including stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure, and kidney disease. Despite advances in the treatment and management of HTN, a lack of medication adherence contributes to the persistence of HTN-related morbidity and mortality affecting men in The Bahamas. The purpose of this qualitative descriptive phenomenological study, guided by Pender’s health promotion model and Bandura’s social cognitive theory, was to explore the lived experiences of Bahamian men diagnosed with hypertension regarding their adherence to prescribed medications. Using Giorgi’s descriptive phenomenological method, in-depth, semistructured interviews were conducted with 11 participants. Data were analyzed through repeated readings, identification of meaning units, transformation into psychologically sensitive expressions, and synthesis into an essential structure that represented shared experiences. The essence of the phenomenon reflected a transformation from reluctance to responsibility, sustained by faith, family influence, and self-discipline. Key recommendations include integrating family-based and faith-informed strategies into clinical practice and addressing male-specific concerns such as sexual side effects. Findings may inform culturally responsive nursing interventions and health education programs that enhance adherence to and management of chronic diseases, thereby improving health outcomes and fostering positive social change within Bahamian communities.
Recommended Citation
Edwards, Bianca, "Exploring the Experiences of Bahamian Men Diagnosed with Hypertension and Medication Adherence" (2025). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 18806.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/18806
