Name of the Procedure:

Recording Systolic Blood Pressure < 140 mmHg
Common name(s): Blood Pressure Measurement
Medical term: Systolic Blood Pressure Recording

Summary

Blood pressure measurement is a simple, non-invasive procedure that records the pressure within arteries when the heart pumps (systolic). This measure determines overall cardiovascular health, specifically checking if the systolic pressure is below 140 mmHg.

Purpose

The goal is to assess cardiovascular health and manage conditions like hypertension. Achieving a systolic blood pressure below 140 mmHg is ideal for preventing complications such as heart attacks and strokes.

Indications

• Signs of high blood pressure (e.g., headaches, dizziness, or blurry vision).
• Hypertension management or diagnosis.
• Routine health check-ups, especially in individuals over 40 or with a history of cardiovascular diseases.

Preparation

• Rest for at least 5 minutes before measurement.
• Avoid caffeine, exercise, and smoking 30 minutes prior.
• Sit quietly with back supported and feet flat on the floor.
• Ensure the arm used for measurement is at heart level.

Procedure Description

1. Apply the Cuff: A blood pressure cuff is wrapped around the upper arm.
2. Inflate the Cuff: The cuff is inflated to a pressure that temporarily stops blood flow.
3. Measure Pressure: The cuff is slowly deflated while a stethoscope or an electronic sensor detects blood flow sounds or oscillations.
4. Read Systolic Pressure: The first sound or reading corresponds to the systolic pressure.

Tools used: Blood pressure cuff (manual or electronic), stethoscope (for manual).

Duration

The entire procedure typically takes around 5 minutes.

Setting

Blood pressure measurement can be performed in various settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, doctor's offices, and even at home.

Personnel

It can be conducted by doctors, nurses, medical assistants, or by patients themselves using automated devices.

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks.
• Rarely, discomfort or mild bruising from the cuff.

Benefits

• Immediate feedback on blood pressure.
• Helps in managing and preventing hypertension-related complications.
• Better informs treatment decisions.

Recovery

No recovery period is required. Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.

Alternatives

Alternative options include ambulatory blood pressure monitoring over 24 hours or using a home blood pressure monitor for regular self-checks. These methods can provide insights into how blood pressure changes during daily activities and over time.

Patient Experience

During the blood pressure measurement, patients might feel a tight squeeze on the arm from the cuff, which is brief and usually not painful. Comfort measures do not typically apply due to the non-invasive nature of the procedure.