LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. 1 describe the importance of blood pressure as an indicator of patient health

2. 2 describe mean arterial blood pressure

3. 3 describe the common methods of blood pressure measurement: manual reading using a sphygmomanometer; automated methods using NIBP devices; and direct arterial

4. 4 describe the purpose and use of a Swan-Gantz catheter

Introduction

Blood pressure is an important indicator of performance of the human heart, lungs, and circulatory system. It is relatively easy to obtain, and readings can be taken at specific time intervals to track patient health. The peak and resting pressure of blood within the arteries is the most commonly measured blood pressure vital sign. Blood pressure does rise and fall as the heart beats and has a periodic waveform. The amount of pressure in the heart can reflect the overall health of a patient and can be an indicator of many diseases and conditions.

Indirect measurement methods

The most common noninvasive blood pressure (NIBP) measurement method involves a blood pressure cuff and a stethoscope (see Figure 7.1). The cuff is connected to a gauge that displays pressure in the cuff. The cuff and gauge together are termed a sphygmomanometer. The blood pressure cuff is usually placed around the arm and inflated to pressures displayed on the gauge. The manual technique involves a person who listens using the stethoscope to Korotkoff sounds. Listening to body sounds is an auscultatory method of measurement.