blood pressure Flashcards
systolic blood pressuer
represents the pressure when the heart contracts and forces blood into the blood vessels. This is the higher of the two numbers and is usually expressed first (e.g. a blood pressure of 120/70 means the systolic pressure is 120 mm Hg).
diastolic
represents the pressure when the heart is relaxed. This is the lower of the two numbers and is usually expressed second (e.g. a blood pressure of 120/70 means the diastolic pressure is 70 mm Hg).
what is blood pressure
Your blood pressure is a measure of the pressure or force of the blood against the walls of your blood vessels.
The pressure is measured in units called mm Hg (a measurement that is short for millimeters of mercury).
Since the pressure changes when the heart contracts and relaxes, blood pressure is expressed as two numbers:
Systolic and Diastolic
blood pressure facts
Blood pressure varies considerably throughout the day. It is usually lower while you are at rest, and higher when you are active. Even lying down or standing up can change your blood pressure. Other things, such as your emotions, pregnancy, smoking, the general environment, and medication can change your blood pressure.
An acceptable blood pressure is less than 140 mm Hg for the systolic reading and less than 90 mm Hg for the diastolic reading.
more facts
For people with diabetes or kidney disease, an acceptable blood pressure is less than 130 mm Hg for the systolic reading and less than 80 mm Hg for the diastolic reading.
A single or occasional blood pressure reading greater than 140/90 mm Hg (or 130/80 mm Hg for people with diabetes or kidney disease) does not necessarily mean you have high blood pressure . If your blood pressure is high when it is measured, you will likely be told to have your blood pressure taken again at a later date.
Your doctor will not make a diagnosis based on one high reading alone. By keeping a record of your blood pressure on an ongoing basis, you and your doctor can decide whether or not your blood pressure is in the normal range.
assessment
Have a calm manner and peaceful environment.
Try to keep the guest relaxed and have everything ready (equipment, charts, pen, etc.) for the reading before the guest is seated.
Since blood pressure levels are affected by emotions, physical activity, and the surroundings, minimize disturbances that may affect the reading.
steps
Position Guest Place Stethoscope in ears Palpate for Brachial Artery Place Stethoscope on Brachial Artery Have guest hold the gauge Close valve – pump to 180 mmHG Once Diastolic Pressure is noted release valve fully and remove cuff
need to discuss
When reviewing the pulses the following points need to be discussed:
The pulse of an artery is located close to the surface of the body and can be felt by utilizing the pads of the fingertips (usually the 2nd and 3rd digits) and slightly compressing the artery against a solid mass such as bone.
pulse assesment
The pulses in the body that can be felt are:
Temporal Artery Facial Artery Common Carotid Artery Brachial Artery Radial Artery Ulnar Artery Femoral Artery Popliteal Artery Dorsalis Pedis Artery
