Ankle-Brachial Pressure Index Flashcards
1
Q
What is the ABPI?
A
The ratio of systolic BP of the legs to the arms.
2
Q
If someone has PAD, what would their ABPI show?
A
They would have lower BP in their legs. Their ABPI would be low.
3
Q
Why is calculating the ABPI important in patients with leg ulcers?
A
To ensure they are venous and not arterial & there is no PAD.
Compression bandaging PAD can be very harmful.
4
Q
How do you interpret an ABPI?
A
- > 1.2: may indicate calcified, stiff arteries. This may be seen with advanced age or PAD
- 1.0 - 1.2: normal
- 0.9 - 1.0: acceptable
- < 0.9: likely PAD. Values < 0.5 indicate severe disease which should be referred urgently
5
Q
What ABPI is the minimum acceptible pressure to do compression bandaging?
A
>= 0.8
