❤️ HYPERTENSION (HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE)

1. Definition

• Hypertension is a persistent elevation of arterial blood pressure above normal levels.

• According to standard guidelines, it is defined as:

  • Systolic BP ≥ 140 mmHg

  • Diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg

2. Purpose (Why it is important to assess/manage)

• To prevent complications like:

  • Heart disease

  • Stroke

  • Kidney damage

• To maintain normal blood circulation

• To improve quality of life

3. Indications (When to assess BP for hypertension)

• Routine health check-up

• Symptoms like:

  • Headache

  • Dizziness

  • Blurred vision

• Family history of hypertension

• Obesity or sedentary lifestyle

4. Contraindications

⚠️ No absolute contraindication for BP measurement, but:

• Avoid measuring BP on:

  • Arm with injury

  • IV infusion arm

  • Post-mastectomy side

5. Articles / Equipment

🧰 Equipment:

• Sphygmomanometer (BP apparatus)

• Stethoscope

🧴 Supplies:

• Alcohol swab (if needed)

📋 Records:

• BP chart / patient record

6. Patient Preparation

• Explain the procedure to the patient

• Ensure patient is relaxed for 5 minutes

• Avoid caffeine, smoking, exercise before measurement

• Position patient:

  • Sitting or lying comfortably

  • Arm at heart level

7. Procedure Steps (Step-by-Step Sentences)

1. Wash hands before starting the procedure.

2. Position the patient comfortably in sitting or lying position.

3. Select the appropriate cuff size for the patient’s arm.

4. Wrap the cuff around the upper arm snugly, about 2–3 cm above the elbow.

5. Palpate the brachial artery to locate pulse.

6. Place the stethoscope over the brachial artery.

7. Inflate the cuff until the pulse disappears and then 20–30 mmHg more.

8. Slowly deflate the cuff at a rate of 2–3 mmHg per second.

9. Note the first sound (Korotkoff sound) as systolic pressure.

10. Note the disappearance of sound as diastolic pressure.

11. Completely deflate the cuff and remove it.

12. Record the reading accurately with arm and position.

13. Wash hands after completing the procedure.

8. Post Procedure Care

• Inform patient about BP reading

• Advise rest if BP is high

• Repeat measurement if needed

• Document findings

9. Complications

• Stroke

• Heart attack

• Kidney failure

• Vision problems

10. Health Education

• Reduce salt intake

• Maintain healthy weight

• Regular exercise

• Avoid smoking and alcohol

• Take medications regularly

• Regular BP monitoring

🎯 Viva Questions

Q1. What is normal BP?👉 120/80 mmHg

Q2. What is hypertension?👉 BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg

Q3. Which artery is used for BP measurement?👉 Brachial artery