Notes on Skill 12: Measuring and Recording Electronic Blood Pressure

Introduction to the Procedure

Steps 1-3: Introductory speech and preparations.
- Step 1: Address client by name and introduce yourself.
- Step 2: Explain the procedure clearly, slowly, and maintain face-to-face contact.
- Step 3: Provide privacy using curtains, screens, or doors.

Step 4: Client should assume a comfortable lying or sitting position.
- Ensure call lights are within reach and bed is in a low and locked position.
- Wash hands before proceeding.

Step 5: Position the client's arm at heart level with palm up and upper arm exposed.

Step 6: Select the appropriate cuff size.
- Cuffs range from pediatric to bariatric.
- Incorrect cuff size affects accuracy (small cuff = high reading, large cuff = low reading).
Step 7: Feel for the brachial artery on the inner arm at the elbow bend.
- Use non-dominant hand to palpate.
Step 8: Place blood pressure cuff snugly on the upper arm with sensor arrow over the brachial artery.
- Ensure tubing faces down and aligns with the artery.

Step 9: Turn on the machine, ensure it functions correctly, and select appropriate setting (infant, child, adult).
Step 10: Push the start button to begin measurement.
- Verify settings in the upper left corner for adult.
- If cuff inflates >200 mmHg, stop machine and use other arm.

Steps 12 & 13: Exit speech, signaling device within reach, and wash hands.
- Ensure bed is in a low, locked position and privacy curtain is removed.

Step 14: Record systolic and diastolic pressures as displayed.
- Example: 104/72 mmHg (millimeters of mercury).

Skill completion confirmed.