Welch Allyn How to take Patients Blood Pressure Reading - Quick Reference Guide - Manual

HOW TO TAKE PATIENTS’ BLOOD PRESSURE READING MANUAL DEVICE
(AUSCULTATORY)
Blood pressure measurements can be
affected by the position of the patient and
their physiological condition.
BEFORE BEGINNING A PROCEDURE
Ensure that the patient rests for at least five
minutes, then sits with back and feet well
supported, legs not crossed. Passively support
the patient’s lower arm and keep the upper arm
at heart level. The procedure needs to take place
in a quiet environment with no talking. Failure to
follow these recommendations can result in
inaccurate blood pressure measurements.
1. Select cuff size appropriate for the patient’s
arm circumference. The applicable range,
in centimetres, is printed on each cuff.
2. Wrap the cuff around the arm with the artery
index marker located over the brachial artery
and with the lower edge of the cuff 2.5 cm above
the bend in the elbow.
3. Apply the cuff snugly, allowing room for no more
than two fingers.
4. Inflate cuff rapidly to a level 30 mm Hg above
estimated (or palpatory) systolic pressure.
5. Partially open the valve to allow deflation at a
rate of 2 to 3 mm Hg per second. As the pressure
falls, note systolic pressure and diastolic pressure
detected with your stethoscope.
6. Rapidly release the remaining pressure and
record measurements immediately. After a
minimum of 30 seconds, repeat the above steps
for a second reading.
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