Taking manual blood pressure involves using a stethoscope and sphygmomanometer (blood pressure cuff) to measure systolic and diastolic pressure. Here's a step-by-step guide based on the reference provided:
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Prepare the Patient: Ensure the patient is seated comfortably with their arm supported at heart level.
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Apply the Cuff: Place the blood pressure cuff on the upper arm, ensuring the lower edge of the cuff is about an inch above the elbow.
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Locate the Brachial Artery: Palpate (feel) for the brachial artery on the inside of the elbow.
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Position the Stethoscope: Place the stethoscope's diaphragm over the brachial artery.
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Inflate the Cuff: Close the valve on the inflation bulb and inflate the cuff to a pressure well above the patient's expected systolic pressure (typically around 160-180 mmHg).
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Deflate Slowly and Listen: Slowly open the valve to deflate the cuff at a rate of 2-3 mmHg per second, while listening through the stethoscope.
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Identify Systolic Pressure: The first clear tapping sound you hear is the systolic pressure. Note the reading on the sphygmomanometer at this point.
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Identify Diastolic Pressure: Continue deflating the cuff. The point at which the sound disappears or significantly muffles is the diastolic pressure. Note the reading on the sphygmomanometer.
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Record the Blood Pressure: Record the blood pressure as systolic pressure over diastolic pressure (e.g., 120/80 mmHg). According to the reference, an example reading could be "104 over 78" (104/78 mmHg).
