Older adult patients with hypertension may have an auscultatory gap in their Korotkoff sounds. It is important when taking their blood pressure measurement to:
pump up the cuff until no sound is heard and then let the air out.
stop midway and begin to inflate again.
make sure the bell of the stethoscope is placed firmly over the artery.
continue to listen until the cuff is deflated.
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale
A. Pumping the cuff until no sound is heard may cause inaccurate readings and is not a proper technique.
B. Stopping midway can result in missing sounds or causing an inaccurate measurement.
C. The bell of the stethoscope should be used for low-pitched sounds, but the key is to continue listening to identify the full Korotkoff sound range, especially in the presence of an auscultatory gap.
D. It is important to continue listening until the cuff is deflated to ensure the accurate measurement of both systolic and diastolic pressures, particularly in patients with an auscultatory gap.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Wrapping the cuff snugly around the arm is important for an accurate reading. The cuff should be snug but not tight to avoid false readings.
B. Positioning the cuff bladder over the brachial artery ensures the correct placement for accurate measurement.
C. Placing the arm above the level of the heart can lead to a falsely low blood pressure reading. The arm should be at heart level for an accurate measurement.
D. Ensuring the gauge starts at zero is critical for accurate measurement and avoids errors in reading.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Waiting 30 minutes is unnecessary unless there is concern about an acute change in the patient's condition.
B. While both readings can be recorded, the difference between arms should be noted, as it can indicate underlying issues such as vascular problems.
C. It is important to retake the blood pressure on both arms to verify accuracy and check for any significant discrepancy.
D. Retaking the pressure on just one arm may miss important information about the other arm's readings.
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