Overview
Blood Pressure Monitoring is a fundamental diagnostic procedure used to measure arterial blood pressure, providing crucial information about cardiovascular status.
Blood pressure monitoring is essential for diagnosing hypertension, hypotension, and monitoring hemodynamic status in various clinical settings.
Learn more in our comprehensive RxDx Medicine Course
Indications
Health assessment
Blood pressure evaluation
Hemodynamic monitoring
Treatment response
Anesthetic planning
Contraindications
Absolute Contraindications
Relative Contraindications
📋 Equipment Checklist
Check off items as you gather them:
Pre-procedure Preparation
Preparation includes patient positioning, equipment setup, and understanding proper measurement technique.Step-by-Step Procedure
Step 1: Patient Preparation
Explain procedure, position patient.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Inadequate explanation
- Poor positioning
💡 Pro Tip:
Position patient comfortably.
Step 2: Cuff Selection
Choose appropriate cuff size.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Wrong size
- Poor fit
💡 Pro Tip:
Use cuff that encircles 80% of arm.
Step 3: Arm Positioning
Position arm at heart level.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Wrong position
- Poor support
💡 Pro Tip:
Support arm at heart level.
Step 4: Cuff Application
Apply cuff properly to upper arm.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Wrong placement
- Poor inflation
💡 Pro Tip:
Place cuff 2-3 cm above elbow.
Step 5: Measurement
Inflate and deflate cuff properly.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Wrong pressure
- Poor technique
💡 Pro Tip:
Inflate 20-30 mmHg above expected systolic.
Step 6: Result Recording
Record systolic and diastolic pressures.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Wrong recording
- Poor documentation
💡 Pro Tip:
Record both pressures accurately.
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Post-procedure Care
Post-procedure care involves result interpretation, documentation, and appropriate clinical correlation.Complications & Management
| Complication | Incidence | Signs | Management | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cuff discomfort | 5-10% | Pain, numbness | Remove cuff, reposition | Proper sizing |
| False readings | 10-20% | Inaccurate measurements | Repeat measurement | Proper technique |
| Skin irritation | 1-2% | Redness, itching | Topical treatment | Gentle application |
| Anxiety | 5-10% | White coat hypertension | Reassurance, repeat | Calm environment |
Clinical Pearls
Use appropriate cuff size.
Position arm at heart level.
Allow 5 minutes rest before measurement.
Take multiple readings.
Document results properly.
Use calm environment.
Consider white coat hypertension.