Name of the Procedure:

Most Recent Systolic Blood Pressure >= 140 mmHg (G8753) Common name(s): Blood Pressure Measurement

Summary

This procedure involves measuring the most recent systolic blood pressure of a patient to determine if it is 140 mmHg or higher. Systolic blood pressure is the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.

Purpose

To monitor and control high blood pressure (hypertension), which can lead to severe health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. The goal is to maintain blood pressure within a normal range to prevent these complications.

Indications

• Known or suspected hypertension
• Symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or chest pain
• Patients undergoing treatment for high blood pressure
• Routine health examinations

Preparation

Patients should:

• Avoid caffeine, exercise, and smoking for at least 30 minutes before the measurement.
• Ensure they are in a calm state, ideally resting for 5 minutes before the measurement.
• Keep their arm at heart level and remain seated with both feet flat on the floor during the measurement.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Setup: The healthcare provider asks the patient to sit comfortably with their back supported and feet flat on the floor.
2. Applying the Cuff: An appropriately sized blood pressure cuff is wrapped around the patient’s upper arm.
3. Measurement:
   • The cuff is inflated using a bulb or an automatic device until it tightens around the arm.
   • The cuff then gently deflates and a gauge measures the pressure.
   • The systolic (first/upper number) and diastolic (second/lower number) pressures are recorded.
4. Verification:
   • Multiple readings may be taken to ensure accuracy, often from both arms.
   • The highest reading is noted if the systolic pressure is 140 mmHg or higher.

Tools: Blood pressure monitor (automated or manual sphygmomanometer). No anesthesia or sedation is needed.

Duration

The entire procedure typically takes about 5-10 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in:

• Doctor’s offices
• Clinics
• Hospitals
• At home (using home blood pressure monitors)

Personnel

• Primary Care Physicians
• Nurses
• Medical Assistants
• The patient (if using a home monitor)

Risks and Complications

• Generally, there are no significant risks associated with proper blood pressure measurement.
• Rarely, minor discomfort or bruising from the cuff.

Benefits

• Early detection of high blood pressure, allowing timely treatment.
• Prevention of complications related to high blood pressure.
• Accurate assessment of treatment efficacy.

Recovery

There is no recovery time required as this is a non-invasive measurement. Regular monitoring may be suggested based on the results.

Alternatives

Other monitoring options include:

• Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring over 24 hours.
• Home blood pressure monitoring. Both options offer advantages such as monitoring blood pressure in a more natural environment and over an extended period.

Patient Experience

During the procedure:

• Patients might feel slight pressure or squeezing sensation on the arm.
• Any mild discomfort is usually brief.

After the procedure:

• There are no significant after-effects.
• Patients can immediately return to their usual activities.