How do you use sphygmomanometer?

To use a sphygmomanometer, follow these steps:

Gather the necessary materials:

Sphygmomanometer (blood pressure cuff)

Stethoscope

Pen and paper to record the blood pressure readings

Prepare the patient:

Have the patient sit in a comfortable position with their back supported and their feet flat on the floor.

Ask the patient to rest their arm on a table or other support, with their palm facing up.

Make sure the patient's arm is at heart level.

Place the blood pressure cuff:

Wrap the blood pressure cuff around the patient's upper arm, about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) above the elbow crease.

The cuff should be snug, but not too tight.

Close the cuff and secure it with the Velcro strap.

Attach the stethoscope:

Place the stethoscope over the brachial artery, just below the blood pressure cuff.

Position the stethoscope so that the bell (diaphragm) is over the artery and the earpieces are in your ears.

Inflate the blood pressure cuff:

Close the air release valve on the blood pressure cuff and start inflating the cuff by squeezing the inflation bulb.

Continue inflating the cuff until the pressure gauge reaches 180 mmHg.

Deflate the blood pressure cuff slowly:

Slowly open the air release valve to gradually deflate the cuff.

As you deflate the cuff, listen for the Korotkoff sounds through the stethoscope.

Korotkoff sounds:

The Korotkoff sounds are sounds that can be heard through the stethoscope as the blood pressure cuff is deflated.

The appearance and disappearance of these sounds correspond to different phases of the blood pressure measurement.

Identify the systolic and diastolic blood pressure:

The systolic blood pressure is the highest pressure reached during the cardiac cycle. It is recorded as the first Korotkoff sound that is heard.

The diastolic blood pressure is the lowest pressure reached during the cardiac cycle. It is recorded as the last Korotkoff sound that is heard.

Record the blood pressure readings:

Write down the systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings on a piece of paper.

Repeat the measurement:

It is recommended to repeat the blood pressure measurement at least twice, and take the average of the two readings.

Remember:

When using a sphygmomanometer, it is important to follow the proper procedure to ensure accurate blood pressure readings.