Name of the Procedure:

Most recent diastolic blood pressure >= 90 mmHg
HCPCS Code: G8755

Summary

The procedure involves measuring the diastolic blood pressure, which is the lower number in a blood pressure reading. It records whether the most recent diastolic blood pressure is equal to or exceeds 90 mmHg, indicating elevated blood pressure.

Purpose

This procedure helps in monitoring and managing patients with high blood pressure (hypertension). The goal is to identify individuals at risk of hypertension-related health issues such as heart disease and stroke, allowing for timely intervention and management.

Indications

• Consistently high blood pressure readings during routine check-ups.
• History of cardiovascular disease or events.
• Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or blurred vision that may indicate high blood pressure.
• Routine monitoring for patients with known hypertension.
• Regular check-ups for patients taking antihypertensive medications.

Preparation

• No specific preparation is required for this blood pressure measurement.
• Avoid caffeine, exercise, and smoking at least 30 minutes before the test.
• Sit quietly for 5 minutes before the reading.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is seated with back supported and feet flat on the ground.
2. The patient's arm is rested on a table at heart level.
3. An appropriate-sized cuff is placed around the upper arm.
4. The cuff is inflated using a sphygmomanometer until blood flow is temporarily stopped.
5. Air is slowly released from the cuff while listening with a stethoscope or using an electronic device to measure the blood pressure.
6. The diastolic blood pressure is recorded when the sound of blood begins to flow steadily.

Equipment Used:

• Sphygmomanometer (manual or digital)
• Stethoscope (for manual measurements)

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1-2 minutes.

Setting

It can be performed in various medical settings, including:

• Doctor’s office
• Hospital
• Outpatient clinic
• Pharmacy

Personnel

• Medical assistant
• Nurse
• Doctor (General Practitioner or Specialist)
• Pharmacist (in some settings)

Risks and Complications

The procedure is safe with minimal risks, such as:

• Mild discomfort from the cuff inflation.
• Rarely, bruising may occur on the arm.

Benefits

• Helps in early detection and management of hypertension.
• Reduces the risk of complications associated with uncontrolled high blood pressure.
• Provides a basis for treatment decisions and adjustments.

Recovery

No recovery time is necessary. Patients can resume normal activities immediately.

Alternatives

• Home blood pressure monitoring: Allows patients to measure their blood pressure at home using a personal device.
• Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring: Involves wearing a blood pressure monitor for 24 hours to get more comprehensive readings.

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Home monitoring: Convenient but reliant on patient compliance and correct usage.
• Ambulatory monitoring: Provides detailed and frequent readings but can be cumbersome for the patient during the monitoring period.

Patient Experience

During the procedure:

• The patient may feel slight discomfort as the cuff inflates and squeezes the arm.
• The procedure itself is quick and non-invasive.

After the procedure:

• No lingering discomfort or side effects.
• Results are usually discussed immediately, and further action or follow-up will depend on the readings.