Blood pressure is the force that blood exerts on the walls of the blood vessels as it circulates through the body. It is an essential component of cardiovascular health and is influenced by a variety of factors, including age, diet, exercise, genetics, and lifestyle.
The two numbers that make up a blood pressure reading represent is the systolic pressure and the diastolic pressure. The systolic pressure is the highest force exerted by the blood against the arterial walls during systole, while the diastolic pressure is the lowest force exerted by blood against artery during diastole.
A normal blood pressure reading is typically around 120/80 mmHg. However, blood pressure can vary throughout the day and can be affected by a range of factors such as stress, physical activity, and medication.
How to measure blood pressure ?
Measuring blood pressure is important for identifying hypertension, monitoring treatment, preventing cardiovascular disease, catching silent health problems, and supporting overall health. Regular blood pressure monitoring should be a routine part of healthcare for individuals of all ages, as high blood pressure is a major risk factor for developing serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Blood pressure monitoring can help catch health issues early on, allowing for timely treatment and better health outcomes, and it can also provide valuable information about the body's overall health.
1. Through a sphygmomanometer
1) Prepare the Equipment :- You will need a sphygmomanometer, a stethoscope, and an appropriate cuff size for the patient. Ensure that the equipment is clean and in good working condition.
2) Position the Patient :- Have the patient sit in a chair with their arm supported at heart level. The arm used for measurement should be bare and free from clothing.
3) Apply the Cuff :- Place the cuff around the upper arm, with the bottom edge of the cuff about 2-3cm above the bend of the elbow. The cuff should be snug, but not too tight.
4) Palpate the Brachial Artery :- Use your fingers to locate the brachial artery on the inside of the arm, just below the cuff.
5) Inflate the Cuff :- Use the bulb to inflate the cuff, closing off the brachial artery. The pressure should be increased gradually until it exceeds the patient's systolic pressure by 30 mmHg.
6) Deflate the Cuff :- Slowly release the pressure on the cuff by opening the valve. Use the stethoscope to listen for the first sound, which indicates the systolic pressure. Note the reading on the gauge at this point.
7) Continue to Deflate the Cuff :- Continue to release the pressure on the cuff and listen for the disappearance of the sound, which indicates the diastolic pressure. Note the reading on the gauge at this point.
8) Record the Results :- Record the systolic and diastolic pressures, and document it.
2. Through digital blood pressure monitor
1) Prepare the Equipment :- You will need a digital blood pressure monitor, appropriate cuff size for the patient, and batteries if required. Ensure that the equipment is clean and in good working condition.
2) Position the Patient :- Have the patient sit in a chair with their arm supported at heart level. The arm used for measurement should be bare and free from clothing.
3) Apply the Cuff :- Place the cuff around the upper arm, with the bottom edge of the cuff about 2-3cm above the bend of the elbow. The cuff should be snug, but not too tight.
4) Turn on the Monitor :- Turn on the monitor and ensure that it is set to the appropriate settings for the patient's age and condition.
5) Start the Measurement :- Press the button to start the measurement. The cuff will inflate automatically, and the monitor will display the blood pressure readings.
6) Record the Results :- Record the systolic and diastolic pressures displayed on the monitor. Some monitors may also provide a pulse rate reading.
7) Repeat the Measurement :- Repeat the measurement two more times to ensure accuracy. Wait at least 1-2 minutes between readings to allow the blood vessels to relax.
8) Calculate the Average :- Calculate the average of the three measurements to obtain an accurate blood pressure reading.
9) Record the Results :- Record the average systolic and diastolic pressures, and document them for future reference.
This two methods of measuring blood pressure is most reliable and widely accepted method of measuring blood pressure. Another methods are also exist but not widely used due to lack of preciseness. So I have not mentioned that methods. Blood pressure is one of the vital function or vital data of our body. And anything abnormality in this will lead to question about the health of patient. So please be precise while measuring and thinking about blood pressure.
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