Name of the Procedure:

Common Name(s)

Monitoring Recent Diastolic Blood Pressure

Technical/Medical Term

Most Recent Diastolic Blood Pressure < 90 mmHg (HCPCS Code G8754)

Summary

This is a procedure to measure and record the most recent diastolic blood pressure, which assesses if it is below 90 mmHg. Diastolic blood pressure is the lower number in a blood pressure reading and indicates the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Cardiovascular risk assessment

Goals/Expected Outcomes

• Ensure diastolic blood pressure is within a healthy range
• Monitor effectiveness of antihypertensive treatments
• Reduce risks of heart attacks, strokes, and other complications

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions Warranting the Procedure

• Routine health check-ups
• Hypertension management
• Cardiovascular disease risk evaluation

Patient Criteria

• Diagnosed with high blood pressure
• Patients undergoing treatment for hypertension
• Individuals at risk for cardiovascular diseases

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions

• Rest for at least 5 minutes before the measurement
• Avoid caffeine, exercise, and smoking 30 minutes prior
• Empty bladder for accurate reading
• Sit quietly with feet flat on the floor and back supported

Diagnostic Tests or Assessments

• Other vital signs measurement
• Previous blood pressure readings for comparison

Procedure Description

Step-by-Step Explanation

1. Positioning: Patient sits in a chair with feet flat and back supported.
2. Cuff Placement: Blood pressure cuff is wrapped around the upper arm.
3. Measurement: Automatic or manual sphygmomanometer inflates the cuff and slowly releases pressure.
4. Recording: The device or healthcare provider records diastolic and systolic blood pressure readings.

Tools/Equipment Used

• Blood pressure cuff (sphygmomanometer)
• Stethoscope (if manual measurement)

Anesthesia/Sedation

• Not applicable; the procedure is non-invasive and painless.

Duration

• Typically takes about 5-10 minutes.

Setting

• Can be performed in various settings:
  • Doctor's office
  • Outpatient clinic
  • Hospital

Personnel

• Conducted by healthcare professionals such as:
  • Nurses
  • Medical assistants
  • Physicians

Risks and Complications

Common Risks

• Slight discomfort from the blood pressure cuff tightening

Rare Risks

• Inaccuracies if the cuff is not properly fitted or patient is not properly positioned

Benefits

• Early detection of hypertension
• Monitoring and managing cardiovascular health
• Immediate results for timely medical intervention

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care

• No special care needed post-procedure
• Resume normal activities immediately

Expected Recovery Time

• Immediate return to usual activities

Restrictions/Follow-up Appointments

• Regular follow-up for patients with high blood pressure

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options

• Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring for 24-hour data
• Home blood pressure monitoring devices

Pros and Cons of Alternatives

• Ambulatory Monitoring: Provides comprehensive data; may be more cumbersome.
• Home Monitoring: Convenient for ongoing monitoring; requires proper training for accuracy.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure

• Mild discomfort due to the pressure from the cuff.

After the Procedure

• No lasting effects; normal sensation once the cuff is deflated.

Pain Management and Comfort Measures

• Ensure the cuff is correctly placed to minimize discomfort
• Encourage relaxation and proper positioning during the measurement