Measuring Blood Pressure Flashcards
What is the purpose of the technique i.e. what are you measuring and why?
Hypertension
Suitability for sport / jobs assessment
Estimate CV risk
Risks of performing some procedures
How do you know whether the measurement is normal?
Ideal:
90/60 - 120/80
If your top number is 140 or more
- then you may have high blood pressure, regardless of your bottom number.
If your bottom number is 90 or more
- then you may have high blood pressure , regardless your top number.
What principles are used in carrying out (application) the technique?
1) Patient seated comfortably (legs uncrossed) or supine & rested for 10mins prior: If anxious, wait a few mins before taking the pressure
2) Arm should be flexed, relaxed and supported, elbow at the level of the heart.
3) Ask the subject not to talk or move during the measurement
4) Wrap the cuff around the upper arm with lower edge 2cm above the antecubital fossa. Attach it snugly.
5) Ensure the stethoscope is placed over the brachial artery, and place stethoscope in ears
6) Close the valve on the bulb and rapidly inflate the cuff using the cuff to <150mmHg. - Avoid overinflating (150mmHg+) for young healthy adults
7) Slightly open valve, air from the cuff, at a moderate rate (2mm/sec).
8) Listen & observe the manometer. The first knocking sound = systolic pressure. knocking sound disappears = diastolic pressure
9) Allow the cuff to deflate fully.
10) Repeat x2, waiting at least 30 secs between
What structures/processes are being assessed?
Cardiovascular system
Precautions / contraindications
Acute disorders affecting test performance (e.g. vomiting, nausea, vertigo)
Avoid open wounds and areas of skin irritation
Avoid obtaining a blood pressure in the same arm in which an arteriovenous fistula (such as used in hemodialysis) is present, or where lymphadema exists.
Avoid obtaining a blood pressure in the ipsilateral arm after breast cancer surgery due to high risk for developing lymphedema (such as after lymph node dissection for treatment of breast cancer)
Do you have any circulatory issues I should be aware of?
Are you feeling well in yourself?
Do you have any open wounds or irritated skin in the area?
How would you document this?
Date, Time, Patient name
Explanation of procedure & gaining informed consent
Record systolic and diastolic pressure, the subject’s position, and which arm was used.
Record the average of the last 2(of 3) is recorded.
If hypertension is found (i.e. over 140mmHg systolic in an adult) then the lowest of the last 2 (of 3) is recorded.
Sign
What should you ask patients to avoid up to 30 minutes before measuring their blood pressure?
Consumption of caffeinated products such as coffee, cola, or tea
Smoking
Exercising
