Answer to Question #316655 in Human Anatomy and Physiology for Jam

Question

List the potential errors that could have affected the results of this heart rate and blood pressure practical and how you would reduce them if the same practical was repeated? ( 100 words please)

Answer 1

1. Using the wrong-sized cuff
2. Incorrect patient positioning
3.  Incorrect cuff placement
4. Normal reading prejudice
5. Not factoring in electronic units correctly

Incorrect positioning. The BP should be taken in a sitting position with the patient's back supported for five minutes and the arm supported at the level of heart.

Improper cuff bladder size. The length of the BP cuff bladder should be 80 percent and the width at least 60% of the upper arm circumference.

Incorrect technique. The cuff should be inflamed quickly to 20 mmHg above the systolic pressure as estimated from the loss of brachial pulse and it should be deflated 3 mmHg per second.

At least two readings are recommended (separated by 10-15 minutes if possible)