Chapter 5: Procedure Techniques for Measuring Blood Pressure

Question 1

What is the first procedure for preparing the patient for a blood pressure measurement?

Answer 1

Position the patient in a chair with their back supported.

Question 2

What is the second procedure for preparing the patient for a blood pressure measurement?

Answer 2

Explain the procedure and answer any questions (An apprehensive patient will have a reading that is higher than the actual blood pressure).

Question 3

What is the third procedure for preparing the patient for a blood pressure measurement?

Answer 3

Ask the patient to remove outer jacket or sweater (Best if the arm is bare or covered only with light clothing as tight clothing can produce inaccurate results).

Question 4

What is the fourth procedure for preparing the patient for a blood pressure measurement?

Answer 4

Have the patient keep their feet flat on the floor as crossed legs may increase blood pressure.

Question 5

What is the fifth procedure for preparing the patient for a blood pressure measurement?

Answer 5

Support the patient’s arm on a table so there is no muscle tension to not affect the reading.

Question 6

Does the patient ca hold up the arm?

Answer 6

No.

Question 7

What is the sixth procedure for preparing the patient for a blood pressure measurement?

Answer 7

Select the appropriate cuff size based on the diameter of the patient’s upper arm.

Question 8

What does an improper cuff size (too loose or too tight) will produce?

Answer 8

An inaccurate reading.