Name of the Procedure:

Most Recent Blood Pressure Measurement - Systolic < 140 mmHg and Diastolic < 90 mmHg
Common Names: Blood Pressure Measurement, BP Check
Technical Terms: Systolic Blood Pressure < 140 mmHg, Diastolic Blood Pressure < 90 mmHg

Summary

A blood pressure measurement is a simple procedure where a healthcare provider checks the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. This specific procedure documents that your most recent reading falls within a healthy range, with the systolic pressure being less than 140 mmHg and the diastolic pressure being less than 90 mmHg.

Purpose

This procedure helps monitor and control blood pressure levels to prevent conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. The expected outcome is a record showing manageable blood pressure levels, indicating effective control or management of conditions necessitating blood pressure monitoring.

Indications

• Routine health check-ups.
• Monitoring of known hypertension or cardiovascular conditions.
• Evaluation of treatment efficacy for blood pressure medications.
• Symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or vision problems that could indicate blood pressure issues.

Preparation

• Rest and relax for at least 5 minutes before the measurement.
• Avoid caffeine, exercise, and smoking for at least 30 minutes before the test.
• Ensure you have not taken blood pressure medication right before the measurement unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.

Procedure Description

1. The patient sits in a relaxed position with their arm supported at heart level.
2. A blood pressure cuff is wrapped snugly around the upper arm.
3. The healthcare provider inflates the cuff and slowly releases the pressure while listening with a stethoscope or using an automated machine.
4. The systolic and diastolic pressures are recorded when the first and last heartbeats are heard, respectively.
5. The readings are documented for further analysis.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 2-5 minutes.

Setting

Blood pressure measurements can be taken in various settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, doctor's offices, or even at home with a personal blood pressure monitor.

Personnel

• Primary Care Physician
• Nurse
• Medical Assistant
• In some cases, the patient themselves (with home monitoring devices)

Risks and Complications

• Generally, there are no risks associated with taking a blood pressure measurement.
• In some rare cases, the inflation of the cuff might cause slight discomfort or bruising.

Benefits

• Early detection and management of hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions.
• Monitoring the effectiveness of treatment plans.
• Reducing risks of complications related to high or low blood pressure can improve overall health outcomes.

Recovery

• There is no recovery time needed for blood pressure measurement.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.

Alternatives

• Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM): Measures blood pressure continuously over 24 hours via a wearable device.
• Home Blood Pressure Monitoring: Patients use home devices to track their blood pressure.

Each alternative has its benefits, such as providing comprehensive data over longer periods (ABPM) or convenience and ease of frequent monitoring at home. However, ABPM may be less comfortable, and home devices may require proper technique and consistent usage for accurate results.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, the patient might feel slight pressure on their arm due to the cuff inflation.
• After the procedure, there is no pain, and the patient can immediately return to their daily routine.
• Proper explanation and care from healthcare providers can ensure a comfortable and quick process.