Measuring Blood Pressure

🔍 Skill Overview

Blood pressure measurement is a vital skill that demonstrates your ability to accurately assess a resident’s cardiovascular status. This procedure requires precision, proper technique, and attention to detail. Accuracy in blood pressure measurement is crucial for resident care and monitoring.

🧰 Required Equipment/Supplies

• Blood pressure cuff (appropriate size)
• Stethoscope
• Watch with second hand
• Alcohol wipes for cleaning
• Documentation materials
• Chair or bed for proper positioning

⚡ Key Steps

1. Pre-procedure
   • Verify resident identity
   • Explain procedure
   • Position resident properly
   • Clean stethoscope
   • Select appropriate cuff size
2. During procedure
   • Locate brachial pulse
   • Position cuff correctly
   • Palpate systolic pressure first
   • Release pressure slowly (2-3 mmHg/second)
   • Listen for Korotkoff sounds
3. Post-procedure
   • Remove cuff carefully
   • Clean equipment
   • Document readings
   • Report abnormal findings

⚠️ Critical Points

• Proper resident positioning
• Correct cuff placement
• No talking during measurement
• Accurate reading of numbers
• Proper deflation rate
• Clean equipment between uses

✅ Skills Test Tips

• Always palpate pulse first
• Wait 30 seconds between readings if repeat needed
• Keep resident’s arm at heart level
• Document immediately
• Report readings outside normal range
• Demonstrate proper infection control

📹 Video Demonstration

Watch our detailed video demonstration below to see proper blood pressure measurement technique in action. This video covers all critical steps and common mistakes to avoid during your skills test.