Anatomy
When checking BP by auscultation, we are measuring the pressure in which artery?
The brachial artery
How high above the crease of the elbow should we place the BP cuff?
2.5 centimetres
A BP reading is expressed in what units of measurement?
mmHg (Milimetres Mercury)
BP measurements give us information about the effectiveness of which body system?
What artery is palpated for when performing a BP measurement by palpation?
The radial artery
What are the two manual methods by which we measure BP
- By palpation
What is the name of the listening device used when measuring BP by auscultation?
Stethoscope
Initial stages of shock result in higher or lower fluctuations of BP?
Higher
What are two contra-indications for performing a BP on a specific arm?
- Trauma
- Fistula
When applied, the middle of the BP cuff must be aligned with what?
The brachial artery
True or False: When measuring BP by palpation, use of a stethoscope is optional but can often result in a more accurate reading
FALSE - Stethoscopes are only used during BP measurements by auscultation
If a patient is de-compensating what changes do you expect to see with their BP?
Lowering / dropping
Hypotension
Systolic BP refers to the pressure within the artery while the heart is in a state of "________"
Contraction
True or False: When releasing pressure from the BP cuff to obtain both systolic / diastolic pressure, doing so as fast as you can will give you the most accurate reading
FALSE - release pressure at a rate of 2 mmHg per second
20mmHg beyond the point of the pulse disappearing
Minimum systolic BP to perfuse the brain is what
60mmHg
True or False: For amputee patients, manual BP measurements can be performed using the carotid arteries
FALSE.....
When might a BP measurement performed by palpation be preferred over one performed by auscultation?
In environments that may be excessively loud or bumpy
What is the correct/official name of the BP cuff?
Sphygmomanometer
What are some acute dangers of severe hypertension?
- Heart attack
- Aneurysm
- Heart failure